UFC on Fox: Emmett vs. Stephens · Feb 24, 2018 · Light Heavyweight · Completed
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Age 43
Height 5' 10"
Reach 73.0"
Weight 230 lbs.
Stance Orthodox
Age 43
Height 6' 3"
Reach 80.0"
Weight 205 lbs.
Stance Southpaw
Career Averages - Ilir Latifi
2.05 SLpM
45.0% Str. Acc.
2.93 SApM
56.0% Str. Def.
2.11 TD Avg
35.0% TD Acc.
100.0% TD Def.
0.3 Sub. Avg
Career Averages - Ovince Saint Preux
3.03 SLpM
47.0% Str. Acc.
3.33 SApM
47.0% Str. Def.
1.09 TD Avg
36.0% TD Acc.
67.0% TD Def.
0.5 Sub. Avg
Ilir Latifi - Fight History
Decision (split) (29–28, 28–29, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Dern vs. Hill · May 20, 2023
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Rodrigo Nascimento 0 49 of 77 63% 76 of 105 2 of 7 28% 0 0 3:50
Ilir Latifi 0 68 of 152 44% 76 of 160 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Rodrigo Nascimento 0 28 of 44 63% 28 of 44 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Ilir Latifi 0 34 of 73 46% 34 of 73 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Rodrigo Nascimento 0 11 of 17 64% 38 of 45 1 of 1 100% 0 0 2:12
Ilir Latifi 0 15 of 36 41% 17 of 38 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Rodrigo Nascimento 0 10 of 16 62% 10 of 16 1 of 5 20% 0 0 1:38
Ilir Latifi 0 19 of 43 44% 25 of 49 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Rodrigo Nascimento 49 of 77 63% 20 of 42 18 of 22 11 of 13 46 of 72 1 of 3 2 of 2
Ilir Latifi 68 of 152 44% 51 of 122 10 of 21 7 of 9 61 of 145 7 of 7 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Rodrigo Nascimento 28 of 44 63% 8 of 20 13 of 16 7 of 8 27 of 42 1 of 2 0 of 0
Ilir Latifi 34 of 73 46% 26 of 60 7 of 12 1 of 1 29 of 68 5 of 5 0 of 0
2 Rodrigo Nascimento 11 of 17 64% 5 of 10 3 of 3 3 of 4 9 of 14 0 of 1 2 of 2
Ilir Latifi 15 of 36 41% 10 of 28 1 of 2 4 of 6 14 of 35 1 of 1 0 of 0
3 Rodrigo Nascimento 10 of 16 62% 7 of 12 2 of 3 1 of 1 10 of 16 0 of 0 0 of 0
Ilir Latifi 19 of 43 44% 15 of 34 2 of 7 2 of 2 18 of 42 1 of 1 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked May 14, 2023 (6 days before fight)
Rodrigo Nascimento

Angelo picks Rodrigo Nascimento because he believes Latifi is not fully committed, having retired in his last fight and now returning for a paycheck. He thinks Nascimento is younger, hungrier, bigger, and more athletic, and should be able to defend takedowns and get his own. He has a 1-unit moneyline bet on Nascimento at -155 but expresses some buyer's remorse, acknowledging Latifi could be boring and lay on top.

1 unit moneyline bet at -155
"I like the much larger NASA Mento to defend takedowns touch latifi get him flustered and then get his own takedowns I do have a one unit moneyline bet on NASA mental at minus 155"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked May 12, 2023 (8 days before fight)
Rodrigo Nascimento

Big Brady picks Rodrigo Nascimento to win by decision. He cites Nascimento's youth, size, reach advantage, and better striking volume. He expects Nascimento to stuff most of Latifi's takedowns and outwork him on the feet. He notes Latifi is undersized for heavyweight and does little offensively. However, he calls it a low-level heavyweight fight and doesn't want much action on it.

decision
"give me an awesome Mentor I'll take him to win by like a greasy greasy decision"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Hesitant picked May 18, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Rodrigo Nascimento

Cody picks Nascimento but is wary of the price. He notes Latifi's takedown-and-hold style could be effective, but Nascimento's size and reach should allow him to win the striking exchanges. He calls it a greasy heavyweight fight and would take Latifi at +200 in a prop bet.

would take Latifi at +200 in a two-to-one prop
"I will take NASA menu but if someone was to offer me a two to one chewy bet."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked May 19, 2023 (1 day before fight)
Ilir Latifi

Connor picks Latifi, agreeing that he won't get out-wrestled and that Nascimento is not very good. He notes that Latifi has beaten similar opponents and that Nascimento's boxing is okay but he is slow and hittable. Connor is confident in Latifi's wrestling and ability to make fights ugly.

"I'll pick with TV. Yeah, he just makes fights ugly and has the like a nascent skills and athleticism to eke those fights out."
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Lean picked May 18, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Rodrigo Nascimento

Daniel Levi leans toward Rodrigo Nascimento due to youth, size, and volume advantage. He notes Nascimento has better volume and is 10 years younger, but questions his chin and takedown defense, which hasn't been tested. He recalls Nascimento struggling against Alan Baudot. He thinks Latifi is on his way out but acknowledges Latifi's better defense and takedown threat. He picks Nascimento but is not confident.

"I'm a lean nasimento just because of the youth and the upside"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked May 15, 2023 (5 days before fight)
Rodrigo Nascimento

The host picks Rodrigo Nascimento, citing his greater motivation and intention to advance his career. He expects Nascimento to use leg kicks and striking to stay away from Latifi's power, then wear him down in the clinch and eventually control him on the ground. He predicts a decision win, noting the over might be a good play.

"I'm gonna go with the guy that has more intentions on trying to take his career to the next level and that's Rodrigo nacimento"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked May 18, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Rodrigo Nascimento

Paul picks Nascimento, expecting him to pick Latifi apart at range. He notes Latifi's low striking volume and age, and thinks Nascimento's reach and size will be decisive. He is not betting but picks Nascimento.

"NASA Mento is going to be the pick."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Hesitant picked May 16, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Rodrigo Nascimento

The MMA Guru finds this fight difficult to predict but sides with Rodrigo Nascimento. He notes Ilir Latifi has teased retirement and is often injured, which makes him unreliable. He believes Nascimento is the better grappler and has decent stand-up, and expects Latifi to expend energy early trying to take him down. He predicts a third-round exhaustion-based TKO where Nascimento stuffs takedowns and batters Latifi against the cage.

third round TKO
"I'm gonna go Rodrigo nascarmento for here ... getting a third round exhaustion-based TKO"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked May 19, 2023 (1 day before fight)
Ilir Latifi

Zane picks Latifi, noting that he is hard to out-wrestle and has beaten technically superior boxers. He believes Latifi can out-wrestle Nascimento and that Nascimento's success comes from out-wrestling others, which won't work against Latifi. Zane acknowledges Latifi is 40 but says he is a great athlete for heavyweight and has a long tail.

"I'll pick with TV. Yeah, he just makes fights ugly and has the like a nascent skills and athleticism to eke those fights out."
Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 30–27) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Dern vs. Yan · Oct 01, 2022
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Ilir Latifi 0 38 of 48 79% 74 of 88 3 of 6 50% 0 0 8:29
Aleksei Oleinik 0 28 of 70 40% 68 of 113 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Ilir Latifi 0 11 of 14 78% 45 of 51 1 of 1 100% 0 0 4:16
Aleksei Oleinik 0 4 of 12 33% 24 of 34 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Ilir Latifi 0 17 of 21 80% 19 of 24 1 of 2 50% 0 0 1:45
Aleksei Oleinik 0 17 of 30 56% 30 of 44 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Ilir Latifi 0 10 of 13 76% 10 of 13 1 of 3 33% 0 0 2:28
Aleksei Oleinik 0 7 of 28 25% 14 of 35 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Ilir Latifi 38 of 48 79% 32 of 40 6 of 8 0 of 0 18 of 27 5 of 6 15 of 15
Aleksei Oleinik 28 of 70 40% 9 of 46 7 of 9 12 of 15 27 of 66 1 of 4 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Ilir Latifi 11 of 14 78% 8 of 10 3 of 4 0 of 0 2 of 5 0 of 0 9 of 9
Aleksei Oleinik 4 of 12 33% 1 of 8 0 of 1 3 of 3 4 of 12 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Ilir Latifi 17 of 21 80% 15 of 18 2 of 3 0 of 0 10 of 14 1 of 1 6 of 6
Aleksei Oleinik 17 of 30 56% 5 of 17 5 of 6 7 of 7 17 of 29 0 of 1 0 of 0
3 Ilir Latifi 10 of 13 76% 9 of 12 1 of 1 0 of 0 6 of 8 4 of 5 0 of 0
Aleksei Oleinik 7 of 28 25% 3 of 21 2 of 2 2 of 5 6 of 25 1 of 3 0 of 0
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Sep 28, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Ilir Latifi

Cody picks Ilir Latifi to win, highlighting his power and the favorable matchup. He notes that Oleinik has a compromised chin and that Latifi's big hooks could knock him out. He expects Latifi to either knock out Oleinik early or grind out a decision. He mentions that Latifi has been training at All-Stars in Sweden and looks motivated.

Latifi by KO +195/+200; Latifi by decision +250
"I just think stylistically he gets this job done even if it's a knockout or a boring decision regardless I still just think he gets the job done"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Sep 28, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Ilir Latifi

Paul picks Ilir Latifi to win, citing his takedown ability and top control. He notes that Oleinik is unlikely to submit Latifi due to his lack of a neck, and that Latifi's power could lead to a knockout. He expects a slow, grinding fight but believes Latifi's style is a bad matchup for Oleinik. He is not betting due to emotional attachment to both fighters.

"I'm picking the sledgehammer I'm not going to be betting this fight because you know my heart's too invested on both sides"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Sep 27, 2022 (4 days before fight)
Aleksei Oleinik

The MMA Guru picks Aleksei Oleinik, despite acknowledging the difficulty of submitting Latifi due to his lack of a neck. He believes Oleinik has the cardio advantage and can outlast Latifi, who hasn't knocked anyone out since 2016. He thinks Oleinik will win a decision by outworking Latifi with volume and grappling. He calls the plus money on Oleinik 'crazy' and bets on him.

Oleinik by decision
"Oleinik by decision is my pick... I think Oleinik has the gas and always kind of surprises with those weird shovel shots."
WIN vs Tanner Boser
Decision (split) (29–28, 27–29, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Rozenstruik vs. Sakai · Jun 05, 2021
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Ilir Latifi 0 45 of 105 42% 84 of 153 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:42
Tanner Boser 0 10 of 38 26% 51 of 98 2 of 3 66% 0 0 6:38
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Ilir Latifi 0 8 of 28 28% 14 of 36 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:20
Tanner Boser 0 1 of 12 8% 6 of 17 1 of 1 100% 0 0 2:03
2 Ilir Latifi 0 34 of 71 47% 35 of 73 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:22
Tanner Boser 0 6 of 21 28% 6 of 21 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:21
3 Ilir Latifi 0 3 of 6 50% 35 of 44 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Tanner Boser 0 3 of 5 60% 39 of 60 1 of 1 100% 0 0 4:14
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Ilir Latifi 45 of 105 42% 32 of 84 11 of 19 2 of 2 28 of 79 4 of 9 13 of 17
Tanner Boser 10 of 38 26% 8 of 33 2 of 4 0 of 1 10 of 38 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Ilir Latifi 8 of 28 28% 6 of 25 2 of 3 0 of 0 6 of 24 2 of 4 0 of 0
Tanner Boser 1 of 12 8% 1 of 11 0 of 1 0 of 0 1 of 12 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Ilir Latifi 34 of 71 47% 25 of 57 8 of 13 1 of 1 19 of 49 2 of 5 13 of 17
Tanner Boser 6 of 21 28% 5 of 18 1 of 2 0 of 1 6 of 21 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Ilir Latifi 3 of 6 50% 1 of 2 1 of 3 1 of 1 3 of 6 0 of 0 0 of 0
Tanner Boser 3 of 5 60% 2 of 4 1 of 1 0 of 0 3 of 5 0 of 0 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Tanner Boser vs. Ilir Latifi

Round 1
In the first of a trio of heavyweight slobberknockers tonight, Boser (19-7-1, 3-2 UFC) will try to get back on the winning track at the expense of the skidding ex-light heavyweight Latifi (14-8, 1 NC; 7-6 UFC). Keeping tabs on this match between big men is referee Herb Dean, and there is a respectful glove touch to start things off. Boser keeps a healthy distance early, landing leg kicks from afar and avoiding the reaching strikes of “The Sledgehammer.” Latifi catches him on the way in, and Boser is able to get out of the way to avoid the brunt of the damage. The Canadian sticks out a jab and fires out a body kick, but the kick gets caught and Latifi throws him down to the ground. The Swede climbs into his foe’s guard, and he steps over to half guard with working on Boser with slow, methodical strikes. Boser recovers his guard without taking much damage, but Latifi slices over to the other side. Latifi latches on with an arm-triangle choke from above, using his full body weight as a smothering device more than actual technique from a choke. Boser explodes out of danger and back to his feet, where he grinds Latifi against the wire. Latifi pushes off thanks to an elbow, and Boser is right there to pop him in the face with a left hand. Boser sits down on a huge right hand, but Latifi crashes in to avoid it and try to throw his own bomb. As a result, neither man connect, and they back off to measure their range. Latifi eats a crisp jab, and slaps another away as he can do nothing but absorb a subsequent body kick. A quick Boser right hand concludes the opening frame.

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

Round 2
Boser offers a glove touch to begin the second frame, and he snaps out a jab and ducks out of the way from an oncoming counter. Latifi presses forward to swing a looping left hand, and Boser takes it on the chin and responds with an uppercut. Boser stabs the body with a kick, and he stutter-steps his way in to connect with a right hand and not fall into a clinch. Boser chips away with a body kick, and he comes over the top with a big right hand that glances off the forward bow. Latifi prepares counter left hands, so Boser elects to jab from a distance and sling body kicks that Latifi cannot properly retaliate against. Boser pops out a crisp jab, breaking up a plodding Latifi’s forward movement. Both men trade leg kicks, and “The Bulldozer” tries to knock Latifi over with a head kick that careens off the high guard. Several sticking left hands from Boser find the mark, and Latifi comes back over the top with a single right hand that makes Boser’s mullet shake. The Canadian is no worse for wear from the blow, and Boser reaches out his fist and pokes Latifi in the eye with his thumb. Latifi falls over in pain, but Dean does not recognize the blow, so Boser tries to finish the job with an onslaught of strikes. Boser pounds away on his opponent as Latifi turtles up, and Dean tells him to fight back. This leads Latifi to bursting back to his feet, where he turns him around and even pursues a takedown that falls short. Latifi appears to have recovered, even if his sight may be compromised, and Boser walks him down with punches and a body kick. Boser stays loose and active from a distance, snapping out jabs and body kicks as Latifi is frustrated. Latifi walks away before the round ends, but Boser cannot capitalize on this and time expires.

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

Round 3
Between rounds, Dean calls in the doctor to examine Latifi’s eye. Latifi says he can see, so the fight continues, and the two touch gloves. Boser sticks out a jab, and Latifi is there to meet him with two looping hooks that bounce off his opponent’s shoulders. Boser backs him off with a few jabs, and he ducks down to tag Latifi with a left hand. “The Sledgehammer” gathers himself and ducks down with a double leg takedown, where he slams Boser to his back and may have hurt Boser by landing head-first. Boser punches with both hands as if he were Sakuraba from his back, and Latifi gloms on to him and keeps his full body weight pressed down. Latifi slowly works Boser’s body and head from above, which may not be individually effective, but are adding up. Boser keeps an open guard and tries to buck and kick off, and this does not succeed, allowing Latifi to keep pounding away on him. “The Sledgehammer” keeps landing his sledgehammers as he tries to break Canadian stone, all while the control time is rapidly accumulating for the Swede. Boser paws at Latifi with a line of short right hands, and he tries to sit up but gets easily pushed over. Latifi climbs into half guard as he squeezes down on his adversary, and a few more punches connect before the slow fight ends.

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

The Official Result
Ilir Latifi def. Tanner Boser via Split Decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Jun 1, 2021 (4 days before fight)
Ilir Latifi

Big Brady thinks the line is off and Latifi has a clear path to victory via takedowns. He notes Boser's 100% takedown defense is untested against real wrestlers, and regional tape shows Boser being taken down and controlled. He points out Latifi took down Derrick Lewis three times and controlled him for nine minutes. He is not impressed with Boser's last performance against Arlovski and predicts Latifi wins by decision.

"i'm gonna i'm gonna take a shot on the dog here with otifi"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Jun 2, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Ilir Latifi

Cody leans toward Latifi, agreeing with Paul. He notes Boser has not faced a wrestler like Latifi and that Latifi's takedowns could be key. Cody is concerned about Latifi's age and recent losses but sees value. He calls it a dogger pass but is tempted.

"it's a dogger pass situation for me just because i think bozer has been lucky"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Hesitant picked Jun 3, 2021 (2 days before fight)
Tanner Boser

Daniel picks Boser but is not confident due to unknown grappling defense. He notes that Boser is a natural heavyweight with twice the output and better point fighting, but if Latifi pins him against the fence or mixes in takedowns, Boser could be exploited. Daniel admits he hasn't seen Boser tested in grappling recently, so the pick is tentative. He expects Boser to outpoint Latifi if the fight stays at range, but acknowledges Latifi's power and clinch work could be problematic.

"i'll pick tanner but it's not a confident pick because of those reasons i mentioned"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lean picked Jun 4, 2021 (1 day before fight)
Tanner Boser

Boser has good striking and volume, but his takedown defense is a question mark. Latifi will try to grapple, but Boser's cardio and movement should allow him to win a decision if he can stay standing.

Boser by decision +190, fight goes distance -120
"I'm going to go with the canadian and that's not a canadian bias"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Jun 2, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Ilir Latifi

Paul picks Latifi as a dog, citing his takedown ability and Boser's lack of wrestling defense. He notes Latifi took down Derrick Lewis and thinks he can do the same to Boser. Paul is concerned about Latifi's age and recent form but sees value at +170. He already bet Latifi at +180.

"give me the sledgehammer elire latifi plus 170 is fine i had the plus 180"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked May 30, 2021 (6 days before fight)
Ilir Latifi

The Guru picks Ilir Latifi as an underdog, believing his grappling will be too much for Tanner Boser. He notes Latifi picked up Derrick Lewis and dunked him, so he expects similar success against Boser. He predicts Latifi will control the fight with takedowns and top control, winning a 30-27 unanimous decision.

unanimous decision, 30-27
"i'm going with ali latifi here i think he's going to out grapple tanebosa for three rounds"
LOSS vs Derrick Lewis
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC 247: Jones vs. Reyes · Feb 08, 2020
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Derrick Lewis 0 20 of 50 40% 27 of 58 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:41
Ilir Latifi 0 5 of 12 41% 62 of 77 3 of 7 42% 0 0 8:49
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Derrick Lewis 0 7 of 13 53% 13 of 19 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:29
Ilir Latifi 0 2 of 6 33% 6 of 10 0 of 3 0% 0 0 2:25
2 Derrick Lewis 0 2 of 13 15% 2 of 14 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:08
Ilir Latifi 0 2 of 5 40% 32 of 40 2 of 2 100% 0 0 3:17
3 Derrick Lewis 0 11 of 24 45% 12 of 25 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:04
Ilir Latifi 0 1 of 1 100% 24 of 27 1 of 2 50% 0 0 3:07
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Derrick Lewis 20 of 50 40% 12 of 39 8 of 10 0 of 1 12 of 38 8 of 12 0 of 0
Ilir Latifi 5 of 12 41% 2 of 8 1 of 1 2 of 3 3 of 8 2 of 4 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Derrick Lewis 7 of 13 53% 2 of 8 5 of 5 0 of 0 4 of 9 3 of 4 0 of 0
Ilir Latifi 2 of 6 33% 1 of 5 1 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 2 2 of 4 0 of 0
2 Derrick Lewis 2 of 13 15% 0 of 9 2 of 3 0 of 1 2 of 11 0 of 2 0 of 0
Ilir Latifi 2 of 5 40% 0 of 2 0 of 0 2 of 3 2 of 5 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Derrick Lewis 11 of 24 45% 10 of 22 1 of 2 0 of 0 6 of 18 5 of 6 0 of 0
Ilir Latifi 1 of 1 100% 1 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 0 1 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Derrick Lewis vs. Ilir Latifi

Round 1
Lewis takes the center of the Octagon as he welcomes Latifi to the heavyweight division. they tie up, and Lewis lands a knee to the body before shoving his foe into the fence. Latifi lands a couple short punches in close before breaking away. Latifi claims he was poked in the eye, but Dan Miragliotta isn’t having it. Lewis launches a jump knee that lands on the chest of Latifi, but the Swede doesn’t seem to be affected. Latifi secures the clinch and then transitions to a single leg. Lewis maintains his balance and Latifi relents. He continues to drive Lewis into the fence, however. Not much is happening in this position, and Miragliotta urges the heavyweights to work before ordering a separation with less than 2:00 remaining. Lewis fires off a surprisingly quick high kick. Moments later, “The Black Beast” lands a body kick, prompting Latifi to shoot. Latifi drives his opponent back into the fence, drawing boos from the crowd. Lewis shows off outstanding defense of the single-leg takedown as Latifi is content to grind away against the fence. They break with 20 seconds left, and Lewis misses a leaping knee in the waning seconds. 10-9 Lewis.

Round 2
Lewis opens with a high switch kick. Latifi blocks it but he felt the blow nonetheless. Latifi answers with a hard low kick. Another hard leg kick from Latifi briefly backs up Lewis, who answers with a kick to the body. Lewis tries the flying knee, but Latifi avoids it and shoves his adversary into the cage again. More boos as Latifi doesn’t offer much in the way of offense from this position. Lewis is able to reverse the position, and he lands a short elbow and a knee. However, that allows Latifi an opportunity to land a body lock takedown, and he lands in half guard. The Swede lands some short punches to the body, but nothing of consequence. Latifi is trying to stay busy enough to avoid a standup, but he doesn’t appear to be interested in passing beyond half guard. With 50 seconds left, Miragliotta orders a standup. Lewis jabs and misses a big right hand. Latifi blocks a high kick, secures the clinch and tosses Lewis to the mat. He dives into guard and ends the frame in top position, landing a couple solid right hands before the horn. 10-9 Latifi.

Round 3
Lewis launches a big overhand right, and Latifi counters, but neither man connects. A solid right lands for Lewis moments later. Lewis again goes back to the jumping knee, but it allows Latifi to secure double underhooks against the fence. Latifi drops low and lifts Lewis, dumping him on his back in the middle of the canvas. Latifi is back in half guard with about 3:30 left in the fight. Latifi stays just busy enough, alternating punches to the body and head. Lewis doesn’t look like he has much hope of returning to his feet from this position. The crowd doesn’t like it, but it’s effective. Lewis powers his way up with 2:00 left. Another flying knee comes up short for Lewis, who is on the attack. His aggression allows Latifi to secure the clinch with double underhooks. Lewis pummels free and lands a knee, but Latifi shoves him back into the fence. There’s only a minute left. Latif trips Lewis down but the Houston native hustles up immediately. A kick from Lewis appears to have hurt Latifi somewhat. Latifi quickly ties up, and Lewis lands some hard elbowsand shrugs his foe off. An uppercut lands for Lewis with Latifi on the retreat. They clinch once more as Latifi sneaks a look at the clock. The round ends as Lewis misses one more big right hand. 10-9 Lewis (29-28 Lewis).

The Official Result
Derrick Lewis def. Ilir Latifi via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28) R3 5:00
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Feb 7, 2020 (1 day before fight)
Derrick Lewis

Daniel Levi picks Derrick Lewis to knock out Ilir Latifi, likely in the first round. He notes that Latifi is too small for heavyweight and has been knocked out by lesser hitters. He praises Lewis's get-up game and finishing ability, and sees no way Lewis loses in Houston.

knockout in the first round
"I think black piece knocks him out in the first round"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert picked Feb 5, 2020 (3 days before fight)

The host does not pick a side, citing the unpredictability of Derrick Lewis and the difficulty in trusting either fighter. He notes that Lewis has power but questionable cardio and technique, while Latifi has a wrestling advantage but may not keep Lewis down. He advises caution and suggests staying away.

"I'm not comfortable betting either side here hey you know Derrick Lewis can easily easily land a shot on your little TV him just put him out you know the TV has had some chin issues as of late and …"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jan 31, 2020 (8 days before fight)
Derrick Lewis

The MMA Guru picks Derrick Lewis to win by KO, citing Lewis's experience, power, and ability to find knockouts in later rounds. He notes Latifi is too muscle-bound, has injury issues, and will gas after the first round. Lewis has a massive reach advantage.

KO win
"Derrick Lewis gets too big ko win but again I'm telling you this card has great underdogs so we'll see just a little tea for you"
LOSS vs Volkan Oezdemir
KO (punches) R2 4:31 · UFC Fight Night: Shevchenko vs. Carmouche 2 · Aug 10, 2019
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Volkan Oezdemir 2 64 of 137 46% 92 of 166 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:25
Ilir Latifi 0 18 of 60 30% 20 of 62 1 of 5 20% 0 0 1:07
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Volkan Oezdemir 0 22 of 45 48% 44 of 68 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:12
Ilir Latifi 0 5 of 19 26% 7 of 21 1 of 5 20% 0 0 1:07
2 Volkan Oezdemir 2 42 of 92 45% 48 of 98 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:13
Ilir Latifi 0 13 of 41 31% 13 of 41 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Volkan Oezdemir 64 of 137 46% 44 of 114 11 of 14 9 of 9 47 of 110 12 of 20 5 of 7
Ilir Latifi 18 of 60 30% 16 of 54 2 of 6 0 of 0 17 of 56 1 of 4 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Volkan Oezdemir 22 of 45 48% 12 of 35 4 of 4 6 of 6 17 of 37 5 of 8 0 of 0
Ilir Latifi 5 of 19 26% 5 of 18 0 of 1 0 of 0 4 of 16 1 of 3 0 of 0
2 Volkan Oezdemir 42 of 92 45% 32 of 79 7 of 10 3 of 3 30 of 73 7 of 12 5 of 7
Ilir Latifi 13 of 41 31% 11 of 36 2 of 5 0 of 0 13 of 40 0 of 1 0 of 0
LOSS vs Corey Anderson
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC 232: Jones vs. Gustafsson 2 · Dec 29, 2018
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Corey Anderson 0 33 of 78 42% 34 of 79 0 of 4 0% 0 0 0:46
Ilir Latifi 0 40 of 121 33% 45 of 127 0 of 4 0% 0 0 0:24
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Corey Anderson 0 12 of 30 40% 12 of 30 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:13
Ilir Latifi 0 7 of 29 24% 7 of 29 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:04
2 Corey Anderson 0 11 of 23 47% 12 of 24 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:33
Ilir Latifi 0 16 of 43 37% 21 of 48 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:18
3 Corey Anderson 0 10 of 25 40% 10 of 25 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Ilir Latifi 0 17 of 49 34% 17 of 50 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:02
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Corey Anderson 33 of 78 42% 23 of 66 3 of 5 7 of 7 23 of 62 10 of 16 0 of 0
Ilir Latifi 40 of 121 33% 24 of 93 11 of 22 5 of 6 38 of 114 2 of 7 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Corey Anderson 12 of 30 40% 7 of 24 1 of 2 4 of 4 8 of 21 4 of 9 0 of 0
Ilir Latifi 7 of 29 24% 4 of 24 1 of 3 2 of 2 7 of 28 0 of 1 0 of 0
2 Corey Anderson 11 of 23 47% 9 of 21 1 of 1 1 of 1 7 of 18 4 of 5 0 of 0
Ilir Latifi 16 of 43 37% 6 of 30 8 of 11 2 of 2 15 of 39 1 of 4 0 of 0
3 Corey Anderson 10 of 25 40% 7 of 21 1 of 2 2 of 2 8 of 23 2 of 2 0 of 0
Ilir Latifi 17 of 49 34% 14 of 39 2 of 8 1 of 2 16 of 47 1 of 2 0 of 0
Technical Submission (standing guillotine choke) R1 3:48 · UFC on Fox: Emmett vs. Stephens · Feb 24, 2018
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Ilir Latifi 0 7 of 24 29% 7 of 24 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Ovince Saint Preux 1 25 of 41 60% 27 of 43 0 of 0 --- 1 0 0:19
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Ilir Latifi 0 7 of 24 29% 7 of 24 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Ovince Saint Preux 1 25 of 41 60% 27 of 43 0 of 0 --- 1 0 0:19
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Ilir Latifi 7 of 24 29% 2 of 18 2 of 3 3 of 3 7 of 24 0 of 0 0 of 0
Ovince Saint Preux 25 of 41 60% 11 of 25 5 of 6 9 of 10 19 of 34 1 of 1 5 of 6
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Ilir Latifi 7 of 24 29% 2 of 18 2 of 3 3 of 3 7 of 24 0 of 0 0 of 0
Ovince Saint Preux 25 of 41 60% 11 of 25 5 of 6 9 of 10 19 of 34 1 of 1 5 of 6
WIN vs Tyson Pedro
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 30–27) R3 5:00 · UFC 215: Nunes vs. Shevchenko 2 · Sep 09, 2017
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Ilir Latifi 0 44 of 79 55% 59 of 94 4 of 5 80% 0 0 7:23
Tyson Pedro 0 31 of 54 57% 44 of 68 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:04
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Ilir Latifi 0 3 of 7 42% 5 of 9 2 of 3 66% 0 0 2:17
Tyson Pedro 0 8 of 17 47% 14 of 23 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:04
2 Ilir Latifi 0 12 of 24 50% 18 of 30 1 of 1 100% 0 0 2:34
Tyson Pedro 0 11 of 19 57% 18 of 26 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Ilir Latifi 0 29 of 48 60% 36 of 55 1 of 1 100% 0 0 2:32
Tyson Pedro 0 12 of 18 66% 12 of 19 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Ilir Latifi 44 of 79 55% 38 of 73 5 of 5 1 of 1 13 of 38 4 of 6 27 of 35
Tyson Pedro 31 of 54 57% 12 of 25 8 of 12 11 of 17 21 of 43 8 of 9 2 of 2
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Ilir Latifi 3 of 7 42% 2 of 6 1 of 1 0 of 0 2 of 5 1 of 2 0 of 0
Tyson Pedro 8 of 17 47% 2 of 7 2 of 3 4 of 7 6 of 14 1 of 2 1 of 1
2 Ilir Latifi 12 of 24 50% 11 of 23 0 of 0 1 of 1 3 of 12 3 of 4 6 of 8
Tyson Pedro 11 of 19 57% 7 of 11 3 of 4 1 of 4 4 of 12 7 of 7 0 of 0
3 Ilir Latifi 29 of 48 60% 25 of 44 4 of 4 0 of 0 8 of 21 0 of 0 21 of 27
Tyson Pedro 12 of 18 66% 3 of 7 3 of 5 6 of 6 11 of 17 0 of 0 1 of 1
Ovince Saint Preux - Fight History
LOSS vs Ryan Spann
Submission (guillotine choke) R1 1:35 · UFC 307: Pereira vs. Rountree Jr. · Oct 05, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Ryan Spann 0 9 of 20 45% 9 of 20 0 of 0 --- 1 0 0:03
Ovince Saint Preux 0 7 of 10 70% 7 of 10 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:03
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Ryan Spann 0 9 of 20 45% 9 of 20 0 of 0 --- 1 0 0:03
Ovince Saint Preux 0 7 of 10 70% 7 of 10 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:03
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Ryan Spann 9 of 20 45% 5 of 13 2 of 5 2 of 2 9 of 20 0 of 0 0 of 0
Ovince Saint Preux 7 of 10 70% 2 of 3 0 of 2 5 of 5 7 of 10 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Ryan Spann 9 of 20 45% 5 of 13 2 of 5 2 of 2 9 of 20 0 of 0 0 of 0
Ovince Saint Preux 7 of 10 70% 2 of 3 0 of 2 5 of 5 7 of 10 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Lean picked Sep 29, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Ryan Spann

Angelo picks Ryan Spann, citing his youth, danger, and finishing ability. He notes Ovince Saint Preux is older and hesitant. However, he is not betting on this fight due to the short notice and elevation, which could lead to a staring contest. He thinks the under 1.5 rounds line is tempting but unreliable.

Not betting due to uncertainty
"I'm going to pick Ryan span here... I'm not betting on this fight"
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Oct 3, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Ryan Spann

Big Brady picks Ryan Spann to win by first-round knockout, acknowledging that Spann is dangerous early but fades if the fight goes past the first round. He notes that OSP is 41 and has been knocked out by lesser fighters like Tanner Boser and Philipe Lins, so Spann's power should be enough. He understands why people are betting OSP but trusts Spann's first-round finishing ability.

first round knockout
"I'm going take a Ryan span here to win this fight by first round knockout it's hard to trust him I see why people are betting OSP but I I mean I think Ryan span should I mean Ryan span …"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Oct 2, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Ovince Saint Preux

Cody picks OSP, citing Spann's cardio issues and tendency to quit. He thinks OSP's durability and experience at altitude will allow him to outlast Spann. He expects a late finish or decision.

"OSP will be the pick"
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Oct 4, 2024 (1 day before fight)
Ryan Spann

Connor picks Spann, arguing that OSP's recent wins have come against smaller or slower opponents, while Spann is neither. Spann is fast and huge, and OSP's age and decline make him a poor bet. He notes that Spann's losses are bad, but he has the physical tools to beat OSP.

"I convinced you to pick Ryan's bond. Because OSP is... the fights that he's won are either against guys much smaller than him in the past or much slower than him."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Lean picked Oct 1, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Ovince Saint Preux

Daniel Vreeland leans toward Ovince Saint Preux, citing his unorthodox style and veteran tactics. He notes that Ryan Spann is a talented flake with a weak chin and poor decision-making. Vreeland points out that OSP has beaten other Forest MMA fighters and had a career-high output in his last fight. He expects OSP to win if he survives the early rounds.

"I think ovince uh is going to complete the trifecta of the and be the forest MMA killer"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Oct 4, 2024 (1 day before fight)
Ovince Saint Preux

The host believes Ovince Saint Preux will avoid the early finishing power of Ryan Spann and then chip away at him in the second and third rounds, winning on the scorecards. He notes that the moneyline is very juicy at the current price, indicating value.

moneyline is very juicy at the current price
"I do believe same PR will do a good enough job in terms of avoiding the early finishing power of Ryan span and then chipping away at him in the second and third rounds where he should be able to …"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Oct 2, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Ovince Saint Preux

Paul picks OSP but with less confidence than before. He notes the altitude and Spann's cardio problems. He thinks OSP can find a finish or win a decision if he conserves energy.

"OSP will be the pick but I like it less"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Oct 1, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Ryan Spann

The MMA Guru picks Ryan Spann to KO Ovince Saint Preux, despite acknowledging Spann's poor decision-making. He believes Spann's explosive power and size will be too much for the 41-year-old OSP, who he considers finished. He expects Spann to land a brutal knockout on the early prelims, as OSP is unlikely to get takedowns and the fight will stay standing.

"I'm going to go with Ryan span you guys I've got a good feeling that he's going to KO oin St PR he's a big Power Striker he's very explosive"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Oct 4, 2024 (1 day before fight)
Ryan Spann

Zane agrees with Connor, noting that OSP's recent wins are unimpressive and Spann has the size and speed advantage. He acknowledges Spann's inconsistency but believes he will win this matchup.

"Fine. I'll, I'll, you're gaslighting me right now. I'm quite sure I picked OSP. You're just lying to me, but you can pick him."
Decision R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Tuivasa vs. Tybura · Mar 16, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Ovince Saint Preux 1 143 of 276 51% 143 of 276 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:06
Kennedy Nzechukwu 0 106 of 250 42% 106 of 250 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:08
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Ovince Saint Preux 0 26 of 57 45% 26 of 57 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Kennedy Nzechukwu 0 22 of 57 38% 22 of 57 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Ovince Saint Preux 0 44 of 79 55% 44 of 79 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Kennedy Nzechukwu 0 29 of 80 36% 29 of 80 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
3 Ovince Saint Preux 1 73 of 140 52% 73 of 140 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:06
Kennedy Nzechukwu 0 55 of 113 48% 55 of 113 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:08
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Ovince Saint Preux 143 of 276 51% 98 of 223 32 of 39 13 of 14 131 of 262 11 of 13 1 of 1
Kennedy Nzechukwu 106 of 250 42% 85 of 213 19 of 35 2 of 2 93 of 235 13 of 15 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Ovince Saint Preux 26 of 57 45% 10 of 38 7 of 10 9 of 9 26 of 57 0 of 0 0 of 0
Kennedy Nzechukwu 22 of 57 38% 14 of 37 6 of 18 2 of 2 22 of 57 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Ovince Saint Preux 44 of 79 55% 30 of 62 10 of 12 4 of 5 44 of 79 0 of 0 0 of 0
Kennedy Nzechukwu 29 of 80 36% 25 of 73 4 of 7 0 of 0 28 of 79 1 of 1 0 of 0
3 Ovince Saint Preux 73 of 140 52% 58 of 123 15 of 17 0 of 0 61 of 126 11 of 13 1 of 1
Kennedy Nzechukwu 55 of 113 48% 46 of 103 9 of 10 0 of 0 43 of 99 12 of 14 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Lock picked Mar 11, 2024 (5 days before fight)
Kennedy Nzechukwu

Angelo calls this his most confident pick on the card. Nzechukwu is long, powerful, has solid takedown defense, and is never out of a fight, though he can be gun-shy. Saint Preux is 40, has no chin, and is frustratingly low-volume, rarely letting his hands go. Angelo sees no path to victory for Saint Preux outside a Hail Mary bomb, which is unlikely given his low output. He thinks Nzechukwu will win easily.

"the pick is quite frankly very easy to be Kennedy here and he's my most confident pick on this entire card"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Mar 12, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Kennedy Nzechukwu

Big Brady picks Kennedy Nzechukwu to win by first-round knockout. He believes OSP is past his prime and not motivated, while Nzechukwu is a big favorite for a reason. He expects a quick finish despite Nzechukwu's history of weird outcomes.

by first round knockout
"Give me Kennedy here Kennedy to win this fight by first round knockout"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Mar 13, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Kennedy Nzechukwu

Cody is confident in Kennedy Nzechukwu, believing OSP is completely washed and on his way out. He details OSP's decline: missing weight, looking flat, and being knocked out in recent fights. He acknowledges Kennedy's chin issues but thinks OSP lacks the power to exploit them. He warns against the minus 500 line but still picks Kennedy.

"I'd go with Kennedy because I really do think OSP is completely washed... he's on the back nine."
LU
Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Mar 12, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Kennedy Nzechukwu

Lucrative James sees Kennedy Nzechukwu as a massive favorite and expects him to finish the fight. He notes that OSP has looked washed recently, with poor cardio and chin, and that Kennedy can knock him out on the feet, with elbows, or in the clinch. He dismisses OSP's chances, stating that the only way OSP wins is if Kennedy makes a huge mistake.

Kennedy Nzechukwu by finish
"I think Kennedy's gonna finish this fight."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Mar 15, 2024 (1 day before fight)
Kennedy Nzechukwu

The host notes that Saint Preux is nearing 41 and fighting a young, hungry fighter in Nzechukwu, who should have speed and power advantages. He expects Nzechukwu to light up Saint Preux early and get a TKO, but mentions that the -500 or -700 odds are too much given the weight class and Saint Preux's experience. He still thinks the under 1.5 rounds should come through easily.

under 1.5 rounds
"I think that will see en zuku light up same prw early and eventually get him out of there by TKO minus 500 orus 700 is a little bit too much for me"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Mar 13, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Kennedy Nzechukwu

Paul also picks Kennedy, echoing that OSP is done. He notes Kennedy's physical advantages (size, speed, reach) and OSP's inability to take punches anymore. He calls it an 'apple pie situation' where fading OSP is tempting but warns about Kennedy's own flaws. He still expects Kennedy to win.

"I would definitely take Kenny Nzechukwu in this fight but minus 500 screams... we're fading OSP being so bad."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Mar 12, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Kennedy Nzechukwu

The Guru picks Kennedy Nzechukwu by TKO, citing OSP's age (40) and recent KO loss to Philipe Lins. He notes Nzechukwu is chinny but has youth and momentum. He dismisses OSP's win over Shogun as controversial and believes Nzechukwu will get the finish.

TKO win
"I'm going to go Nuku gets a TKO win here although he is maybe the chest fighter in UFC history I'm going to trust him to win against ENT St PR in 2024."
LOSS vs Philipe Lins
KO (punches) R1 0:49 · UFC Fight Night: Andrade vs. Blanchfield · Feb 18, 2023
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Philipe Lins 0 1 of 3 33% 1 of 3 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Ovince Saint Preux 1 18 of 44 40% 18 of 44 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Philipe Lins 0 1 of 3 33% 1 of 3 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Ovince Saint Preux 1 18 of 44 40% 18 of 44 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Philipe Lins 1 of 3 33% 0 of 1 0 of 0 1 of 2 1 of 3 0 of 0 0 of 0
Ovince Saint Preux 18 of 44 40% 17 of 43 1 of 1 0 of 0 13 of 38 4 of 5 1 of 1
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Philipe Lins 1 of 3 33% 0 of 1 0 of 0 1 of 2 1 of 3 0 of 0 0 of 0
Ovince Saint Preux 18 of 44 40% 17 of 43 1 of 1 0 of 0 13 of 38 4 of 5 1 of 1
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Feb 14, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Philipe Lins

Angelo picks Lins because OSP is infuriatingly low-volume, often not letting his hands go and throwing one punch at a time. Lins has power, a BJJ black belt, and showed wrestling in his last fight with four takedowns. Angelo believes Lins will win by simply outworking OSP, who doesn't push the pace. He notes the line movement reflects public agreement.

"I like Felipe to get it done... I just can't pick a guy that doesn't go out there and try to win these fights."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Feb 13, 2023 (5 days before fight)
Philipe Lins

Big Brady is not high on Lins but thinks OSP looks disinterested and has been in terrible fights recently. He notes Lins looked better at light heavyweight in his last fight, while OSP has been knocked out by Tanner Boser. He predicts Lins wins by first-round knockout, but warns against betting the -220 line.

Lins by KO, round 1
"I'm gonna say Lynn's knocks out OSP I'm gonna say knocks him out"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Hesitant picked Feb 15, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Philipe Lins

Cody picks Lins but doesn't love the -200. He details OSP's decline: leg injury, weight-cutting issues, missing weight for the first time in his career, and poor performances. He says Lins is a better technical striker and should stand on the outside and out-volume OSP. He notes Lins has wrestling advantage and is younger with fewer fights. However, he says he needs to see weigh-ins because OSP has to make 205 and Lins has been out with injuries. He says he'll pick Lins but won't bet it.

Cody mentions OSP has 40+ pro fights and his body is broken down. He says Lins is 37 but has less than 20 pro fights. He says he'll pick Lins but doesn't love it.
"I will take lens but you know do you love it minus 200 definitely not could you see yourself losing I could but what am I supposed to do pass on all these chalky spots got a bite down at …"
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Feb 16, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Philipe Lins

Connor agrees, noting that Lins looked fast and powerful at light heavyweight, with a good boxing game based on straight punches and efficient combinations. He points out that OSP is incredibly passive and will give Lins space to build confidence. Connor also mentions that OSP's recent performances show a lack of confidence and a tendency to back up without offering a counter threat. He sees no reason to pick OSP.

"Yeah, absolutely. See, no reason to pick OSP like Liz looked more than fast enough to be a light heavyweight."
JA
Jacob Lines Expert Lean picked Feb 14, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Philipe Lins

Jacob trusts Lins more than OSP because OSP is comfortable being inactive. He thinks the odds at +200 are a bit disrespectful to OSP, as Lins isn't a dominant wrestler or powerful striker. Jacob expects a boring fight with Lins hanging on OSP's hips and winning a decision. He notes both have been knocked out by Tanner Boser, but Lins is the better overall fighter.

"Lins is definitely gonna be picking this matchup... I think these odds are a little bit disrespectful at plus 200."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lean picked Feb 14, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Philipe Lins

Lins has a grinding style with good forward pressure and clinch work, which should wear down OSP. OSP's cardio and aggression have declined, and he relies on a fading left hook. Lins can close distance, avoid the hook, and win a decision by controlling the cage and landing takedowns.

Lins wins by decision
"I lean a little bit to the Philippe Lins side... I think he gets his job done and gets the job done via decision."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Hesitant picked Feb 15, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Philipe Lins

Paul picks Lins but won't bet it. He notes Lins leaned on wrestling against Prachnio, which could get him in trouble against OSP. He says OSP is not the same guy from 5-6 years ago; he's slow and has slowed down significantly. He says he doesn't see many advantages for OSP and this might be his last fight in the UFC. He says he'll pick Lins but needs to see weigh-ins.

Paul mentions Lins made weight and looked fine against Prachnio but slowed down. He says OSP's speed is gone.
"I'll pick lens as well I don't love it either I definitely won't be betting it."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Hesitant picked Feb 14, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Philipe Lins

The MMA Guru picks Philipe Lins, but with hesitation. He notes Lins' losses outside the UFC were to Vadim Nemkov, and he had a good PFL career. He criticizes OSP for taking Shogun to a close decision and getting ragdolled by Andre Petroski. He thinks Lins is younger, more motivated, and hungry after many canceled fights, predicting a decision or late second-round TKO.

decision or late round second round TKO
"I'll go with Felipe Lins if he can make light heavyweight and make it healthily I'll trust him to win this one"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Feb 16, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Philipe Lins

Zane sees Lins as a confident, aggressive fighter who looked great at light heavyweight, with good boxing and power. He notes that OSP is passive and often relies on a single moment of power to win, but that ability is diminishing with age. Zane believes Lins will be able to walk OSP down and bully him, as OSP tends to back himself into the cage and abandon his guard. He also mentions that Lins is not giving up size and power to OSP, and that OSP's confidence is low.

"I just got to pick Lynn's to go out there. And as long as he's just, even if all he wants to do is throw punches, as long as he's willing to stock forward and throw punches the way he …"
WIN vs Maurício Rua
Decision (split) (28–29, 29–28, 30–27) R3 5:00 · UFC 274: Oliveira vs. Gaethje · May 07, 2022
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Ovince Saint Preux 0 54 of 99 54% 54 of 99 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Maurício Rua 0 62 of 112 55% 62 of 112 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:15
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Ovince Saint Preux 0 20 of 38 52% 20 of 38 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Maurício Rua 0 20 of 34 58% 20 of 34 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Ovince Saint Preux 0 21 of 33 63% 21 of 33 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Maurício Rua 0 20 of 39 51% 20 of 39 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Ovince Saint Preux 0 13 of 28 46% 13 of 28 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Maurício Rua 0 22 of 39 56% 22 of 39 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:15
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Ovince Saint Preux 54 of 99 54% 18 of 53 11 of 17 25 of 29 54 of 99 0 of 0 0 of 0
Maurício Rua 62 of 112 55% 18 of 57 36 of 43 8 of 12 62 of 112 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Ovince Saint Preux 20 of 38 52% 4 of 20 6 of 7 10 of 11 20 of 38 0 of 0 0 of 0
Maurício Rua 20 of 34 58% 4 of 15 13 of 14 3 of 5 20 of 34 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Ovince Saint Preux 21 of 33 63% 8 of 14 4 of 8 9 of 11 21 of 33 0 of 0 0 of 0
Maurício Rua 20 of 39 51% 4 of 19 13 of 15 3 of 5 20 of 39 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Ovince Saint Preux 13 of 28 46% 6 of 19 1 of 2 6 of 7 13 of 28 0 of 0 0 of 0
Maurício Rua 22 of 39 56% 10 of 23 10 of 14 2 of 2 22 of 39 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Hesitant picked Apr 30, 2022 (7 days before fight)
Ovince Saint Preux

Angelo picks Ovince Saint Preux despite his gut feeling for Shogun. He reasons that Saint Preux's athleticism and 66% takedown defense will make it tough for Shogun to take him down. He admits it goes against his childhood watching fights but goes with Saint Preux. He makes no bet on this fight.

No bet
"I got to go with oven st prue here but i'm not no no bet i am not making a bet here"
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked May 2, 2022 (5 days before fight)
Ovince Saint Preux

Big Brady picks Ovince Saint Preux to win by first-round finish, but he is hesitant. He believes OSP is the less washed fighter and that Shogun has looked poor recently, getting knocked out by Paul Craig and struggling with aging opponents. Stylistically, OSP has the advantage on the feet and can also take Shogun down. However, OSP is 39 and has lost two in a row by knockout, so confidence is low. Brady expects OSP to finish Shogun early, but he would not recommend betting on this fight due to the red flags.

first round finish
"I gotta go osp here I'm going to say osp wins I'm going to say he kind of runs through shogun whether it's a knockout on the feet whether it's a grounded pound tko whether it's a submission on the …"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked May 4, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Ovince Saint Preux

Cody picks OSP, but emphasizes that weigh-ins are crucial. He notes OSP's recent weight misses and injuries, but believes OSP has been fighting better competition lately and giving a better account of himself. In contrast, Shogun is a shell of his former self, with poor performances in his last three fights. Cody thinks OSP's recent activity and level of competition give him the edge, despite the weight concerns.

"i gotta retain with osb here"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Lean picked May 5, 2022 (2 days before fight)
Maurício Rua

Daniel Levi picks Shogun Rua as a slight underdog, acknowledging he is a fanboy but also seeing a path to victory. He thinks Shogun has the better process and technique, and may be more motivated after being knocked out quickly in their first fight. However, he is not confident because Shogun's durability is a major concern. He considers a small half-unit bet on Shogun moneyline but does not commit to a bet in the transcript.

Daniel mentions he is not comfortable laying -250 on OSP. He considers a small bet on Shogun but does not confirm placing it. He notes OSP by KO at +250 is a decent prop but prefers moneyline.
"I'm picking Shogun to win this fight. I don't hate it man, and if you are gonna bet the fight, I mean with you if you're betting the money line no chance I'm laying chalk on OSP."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked May 6, 2022 (1 day before fight)
Ovince Saint Preux

The host picks Ovince Saint Preux to win by knockout, likely early. He references their first fight where OSP starched Shogun in 34 seconds. He notes Shogun's age and slowed striking, and OSP's desire to replicate the finish. He prefers betting 'fight doesn't go to decision' at similar odds to OSP moneyline, and likes OSP round 1 at +200. He expects OSP to land on Shogun's chin and put him out.

fight doesn't go to decision; OSP round 1 +200
"same proof decide here he's going to go out there he's going to land on the chin and put him out"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert picked May 4, 2022 (3 days before fight)

Paul does not make a clear pick for this fight. He discusses OSP's weight issues and Shogun's decline, noting that OSP hasn't looked great and Shogun is a shell of himself. He considers it a dogger pass situation and cannot pull the trigger on Shogun. He does not express a preference for either fighter.

"i guess it's a dogger pass situation again for me here like osp hasn't been looking great himself he's super slow it's probably pretty good matchmaking but like are you really gonna have the cajones to pull the trigger on …"
LOSS vs Tanner Boser
KO (punches) R2 2:31 · UFC Fight Night: Gane vs. Volkov · Jun 26, 2021
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Tanner Boser 1 33 of 72 45% 33 of 72 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:16
Ovince Saint Preux 0 9 of 21 42% 12 of 26 1 of 5 20% 0 0 1:12
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Tanner Boser 0 25 of 53 47% 25 of 53 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Ovince Saint Preux 0 8 of 18 44% 8 of 18 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
2 Tanner Boser 1 8 of 19 42% 8 of 19 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:16
Ovince Saint Preux 0 1 of 3 33% 4 of 8 1 of 4 25% 0 0 1:12
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Tanner Boser 33 of 72 45% 10 of 44 10 of 15 13 of 13 31 of 69 1 of 1 1 of 2
Ovince Saint Preux 9 of 21 42% 2 of 13 6 of 7 1 of 1 9 of 21 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Tanner Boser 25 of 53 47% 4 of 29 9 of 12 12 of 12 25 of 53 0 of 0 0 of 0
Ovince Saint Preux 8 of 18 44% 2 of 11 5 of 6 1 of 1 8 of 18 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Tanner Boser 8 of 19 42% 6 of 15 1 of 3 1 of 1 6 of 16 1 of 1 1 of 2
Ovince Saint Preux 1 of 3 33% 0 of 2 1 of 1 0 of 0 1 of 3 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jun 23, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Ovince Saint Preux

Angelo picks Ovince Saint Preux, hoping that Boser's forward pressure will bring out volume in OSP. He notes OSP has more ways to win and hits hard, but his issue is low output. Angelo has a moneyline bet on OSP at plus odds. He likes more/more on the strike line.

"i think tanner boser comes in here brings the pressure puts it on oven saint prue but i'm hoping that that forward pressure and sort of the weirdness in some of his style brings out the volume in osp and …"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Jun 22, 2021 (4 days before fight)
Tanner Boser

Big Brady picks Tanner Boser to win by decision, citing his superior striking output (4.21 sig strikes/min) and defense (63%), while OSP has low volume and negative strike differential. He notes OSP's reach advantage but thinks Boser's speed and youth will be key. He worries about judges after Boser's recent close losses but believes Boser should win if he out-lands OSP. He is not confident betting Boser due to judging.

by decision, not confident betting due to judges
"i'm gonna take bose to win by decision i think he's gonna out point osp"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Hesitant picked Jun 23, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Tanner Boser

Cody picks Tanner Boser but with low confidence. He notes Boser has lost his last two as a favorite, but those were questionable decisions. He argues Boser has speed and size advantages, and OSP is past his prime, missing weight recently, and looked lethargic. He thinks Boser can stuff takedowns and keep the fight standing. However, he warns against heavy exposure due to Boser's recent losses and OSP's veteran savvy.

"i gotta go with bozer but i i want to say i've learned my lesson on those last two losses so i don't want too much exposure on him"
JA
Jacob Lines Expert picked Jun 23, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Ovince Saint Preux

Jacob says he has no idea who will win this fight but hopes OSP wins. He picks OSP with heart rather than logic. He would stay away from both guys in DraftKings.

"i have no idea who's gonna win this fight i think it's gonna be a ton of fun i hope uh osp wins you know i like osp nothing against tanner bozer but i think this is gonna be a …"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Jun 24, 2021 (2 days before fight)
Tanner Boser

Boser's leg kick is the main ingredient in his wins, and he should establish it against Saint Preux. OSP's cardio issues will surface after the first round, allowing Boser to take over with bigger strikes. Boser will shuck off desperation takedowns and outstrike OSP over 15 minutes. The longer the fight goes, the more it favors Boser. OSP's submission threat is there but his top control and wrestling aren't good enough to keep Boser down.

Boser by decision plus 175; fight goes to decision plus 110
"I think bozo will start to take over with you know starting off with that leg kick... I do expect him to go out there and outstrike saint prue over 15 minutes and take home a unanimous decision victory"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Jun 23, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Tanner Boser

Paul leans toward Tanner Boser, citing speed advantage and OSP's poor performance at heavyweight. He notes OSP missed weight and is 37, with his best days behind him. However, he is not confident because Boser didn't look great against Latifi and has lost two straight as a favorite. He thinks OSP's path is takedowns, but Boser's takedown defense should hold.

"i would lean towards tanner bozer here but he didn't look great against elir letifi so it's not a spot that i really love"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jun 21, 2021 (5 days before fight)
Tanner Boser

The MMA Guru picks Tanner Boser by first-round KO, citing OSP's hesitancy and declining chin. He notes Boser's anger from his loss to Ilir Latifi and believes he will come out aggressive. He criticizes OSP's grappling and aging, predicting Boser will land combination punches against the cage and finish him early.

first round KO
"i'm going with tanabosa by ko"
LOSS vs Jamahal Hill
TKO (punches) R2 3:37 · UFC on ESPN: Hermansson vs. Vettori · Dec 05, 2020
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Jamahal Hill 0 36 of 72 50% 37 of 73 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Ovince Saint Preux 0 68 of 128 53% 68 of 128 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:15
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Jamahal Hill 0 21 of 41 51% 22 of 42 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Ovince Saint Preux 0 27 of 51 52% 27 of 51 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:09
2 Jamahal Hill 0 15 of 31 48% 15 of 31 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Ovince Saint Preux 0 41 of 77 53% 41 of 77 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:06
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Jamahal Hill 36 of 72 50% 7 of 36 14 of 17 15 of 19 35 of 70 1 of 2 0 of 0
Ovince Saint Preux 68 of 128 53% 39 of 92 23 of 28 6 of 8 62 of 120 6 of 8 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Jamahal Hill 21 of 41 51% 2 of 17 8 of 10 11 of 14 21 of 41 0 of 0 0 of 0
Ovince Saint Preux 27 of 51 52% 7 of 25 15 of 20 5 of 6 27 of 51 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Jamahal Hill 15 of 31 48% 5 of 19 6 of 7 4 of 5 14 of 29 1 of 2 0 of 0
Ovince Saint Preux 41 of 77 53% 32 of 67 8 of 8 1 of 2 35 of 69 6 of 8 0 of 0
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Dec 2, 2020 (3 days before fight)
Ovince Saint Preux

Big Brady picks Ovince Saint Preux as an underdog, citing Jamahal Hill's unproven level of competition. He notes Hill's takedown defense is questionable, as he was taken down multiple times by Darko Stosic. He believes OSP's veteran savvy and submission threat will be the difference, predicting OSP will take Hill down and submit him. He acknowledges OSP has been hurt in fights but only knocked out twice in 39 fights.

OSP by submission; Hill's takedown defense suspect; OSP's submission rate 36%
"I'm gonna go with OSP... I think Hill's takedown defense is suspect... I think OSP takes him down I think he's gonna submit him"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Dec 2, 2020 (3 days before fight)
Jamahal Hill

Daniel is high on Jamahal Hill, calling him one of the brightest light heavyweight prospects with top-five potential. He highlights Hill's exceptional output and volume, noting he can land over 100 strikes in 15 minutes and has a bantamweight-like pace. He praises Hill's get-up game, having gotten up from all six takedowns against Darko Stosic, and his varied striking including jabs, straight lefts, body shots, and kicks. He believes OSP's sparring partner Douglas Usher, a shorter southpaw, is not ideal preparation for Hill's length and reach. He predicts Hill will either knock out OSP or win a dominant decision via volume, similar to Dominick Reyes' win over OSP.

"I think that saturday night is gonna be jamal hill's coming out party I think he's gonna take ovins to a place he likes to call touch him up university and I think he comes out here and I think …"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Nov 30, 2020 (5 days before fight)
Jamahal Hill

The host picks Jamahal Hill to win, likely by first or second round KO. He believes Hill's diverse striking and size advantage will be a nightmare matchup for OSP, who struggles against bigger, varied strikers. He notes OSP's age and suspect chin, and that Hill's chin-up style is a concern but OSP's counters may not be as effective. He likes Hill at -165 and thinks the line is getting better.

Hill by KO in first or second round; OSP's ground game advantage if fight goes there.
"I do like jamal hill i think he gets it done probably first or second round"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Nov 30, 2020 (5 days before fight)
Jamahal Hill

The MMA Guru picks Jamahal Hill by TKO in the first or second round, noting that Hill's size and explosiveness will be key against OSP. He believes Hill's youth and fast improvement will allow him to get inside and finish, while OSP has not been KO'd recently but is vulnerable. He acknowledges OSP is a good underdog but sticks with Hill.

method: TKO, round: 1-2
"i think we're going to see him get the job done by tko in the first or second round"
KO (punch) R2 4:07 · UFC Fight Night: Overeem vs. Sakai · Sep 05, 2020
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Ovince Saint Preux 1 33 of 80 41% 33 of 80 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:03
Alonzo Menifield 0 19 of 40 47% 21 of 43 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:36
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Ovince Saint Preux 0 13 of 42 30% 13 of 42 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Alonzo Menifield 0 11 of 23 47% 13 of 26 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:36
2 Ovince Saint Preux 1 20 of 38 52% 20 of 38 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:03
Alonzo Menifield 0 8 of 17 47% 8 of 17 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Ovince Saint Preux 33 of 80 41% 12 of 44 17 of 31 4 of 5 33 of 80 0 of 0 0 of 0
Alonzo Menifield 19 of 40 47% 12 of 31 3 of 5 4 of 4 17 of 38 2 of 2 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Ovince Saint Preux 13 of 42 30% 7 of 25 6 of 16 0 of 1 13 of 42 0 of 0 0 of 0
Alonzo Menifield 11 of 23 47% 9 of 19 1 of 3 1 of 1 10 of 22 1 of 1 0 of 0
2 Ovince Saint Preux 20 of 38 52% 5 of 19 11 of 15 4 of 4 20 of 38 0 of 0 0 of 0
Alonzo Menifield 8 of 17 47% 3 of 12 2 of 2 3 of 3 7 of 16 1 of 1 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Ovince St. Preux vs. Alonzo Menifield

Round 1
Kicking up to 205 pounds for the recently rescheduled co-main event, former light heavyweight title challenger and one-off heavyweight St. Preux (24-14, 12-9 UFC) comes to blows with the knockout-minded Menifield (9-1, 2-1 UFC). With a touch of gloves between the two, referee Jason Herzog checks in the contest and it’s on with the show! Menifield races forward with punches and shoots in for a low takedown, but “OSP” shrugs it off and gets Menifield to back off. Menifield lands a hard right hand, and “OSP” responds with a slapping low kick as he plods forward. St. Preux connects with a piercing jab, and Menifield rushes in at him to land some bombs but bounces off the side of his opponent. Menifield crashes in to pursue a body lock, and after stalling out, he backs away. “OSP” lets him have it with a thudding body kick, and he backs away when Menifield tries to counter him. St. Preux winds up with a right hand that nearly makes him topple over, and Menifield slams a right hand into his man’s guard. St. Preux lands a long left hand and backs Menifield away, but “Atomic” comes back at him hard. “OSP” kicks to the body a few more times to halt an advancing Menifield, and he scoots back to let a leg kick ricochet off his shin. A long jab finds its home for St. Preux, and he gets off another body kick as Menifield struggles to find his range. Menifield connects with a right hand that buckles St. Preux’s knees, but he keeps his composure and throws back in the form of some kicks. Menifield lands another left hand, and blocks a sweeping body kick. St. Preux swats him in the face but takes a few power punches as the round ends.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 St. Preux
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 St. Preux
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 St. Preux

Round 2
Menifield opens the round with a big right hand, and “OSP” backs away before getting a kick up. St. Preux nearly falls over with a looping right hand, and Menifield does not take advantage of it but avoids the zooming strike. Menifield lands a low kick and may have hurt his foot as he stumbles backwards, and “OSP” stands before him and slowly walks him down. St. Preux chips away at him with kicks low and high, and Menifield is once more finding himself backing himself away and circling on the cage wall. St. Preux stings him with two more kicks to the body, and he does not stop throwing them. “OSP” ducks away from a punch and lands a kick that may have glanced off the cup, but the action does not pause as Herzog checks on the fighters. “OSP” scores with a right hand, and he has slowed to landing single power strikes while Menifield swings and misses. Menifield loads up with all he has with a booming right hand, and “OSP” is stumbled and possibly hurt as he falls into the fence.
Menifield charges at him after St. Preux gets his bearings, and a short check left hook out of nowhere puts Menifield’s lights out. Menifield crumbles face-first to the ground, and “OSP” stands still to admire his work, knowing there is nothing more he needs to do in the cage tonight. Wakanda Forever.

The Official Result
Ovince St. Preux def. Alonzo Menifield R2 4:07 via KO (Punch)
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Sep 2, 2020 (3 days before fight)
Alonzo Menifield

Big Brady is confident in Menifield, citing his takedown defense (85%) and power. He believes Menifield has worked on his cardio after gassing against Devin Clark and looks in great shape. He thinks OSP is hittable, low volume, and has a questionable chin. He predicts a first-round knockout but says Menifield is live even if it goes past the first round.

Menifield by knockout, first round
"i'm going to pick minefield to win by first round knockout here"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Hesitant picked Sep 3, 2020 (2 days before fight)
Ovince Saint Preux

Daniel Levi sticks with Ovince Saint Preux despite concerns about a second weight cut in two weeks and a COVID scare. He believes OSP is a much better fighter than Devin Clark, who Menifield lost to, and that OSP's wrestling for MMA is superior. However, he is not confident and expects a close fight that could go three rounds, noting Menifield's power and OSP's tendency to slow down.

Fight goes to decision
"i'm not as confident as i was the first time but i'm not gonna switch my pick i'm going to stick with o vince i think if he can get past this first round not getting knocked out you can …"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Sep 3, 2020 (2 days before fight)
Ovince Saint Preux

The host picks OSP as a +115 underdog, expecting him to survive the first round and then take over. He notes OSP's experience, durability, and submission threat, while Menifield has cardio issues and is one-dimensional. He predicts a second or third round stoppage via ground and pound or submission.

OSP inside the distance at +220; OSP by submission at +325; OSP by TKO at +715
"i'm taking one speed here i'm going to take him to win by second or third round"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Aug 31, 2020 (5 days before fight)
Ovince Saint Preux

The MMA Guru picks Ovince Saint Preux, arguing that OSP has shown durability and avoids getting KO'd despite a perceived weak chin. He believes Menifield's power is overrated and that OSP will take the fight to the ground and secure a submission (von Flue choke) in the first or second round. He references OSP's recent wins over Michal Oleksiejczuk and Tyson Pedro.

submission in first or second round
"i'm gonna go with osp you know i don't think he's there to be ko'd like everyone seems to think he is"
LOSS vs Ben Rothwell
Decision (split) (28–29, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Smith vs. Teixeira · May 13, 2020
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Ben Rothwell 0 56 of 110 50% 86 of 142 1 of 3 33% 0 0 5:49
Ovince Saint Preux 1 42 of 82 51% 46 of 87 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:22
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Ben Rothwell 0 7 of 14 50% 18 of 26 1 of 1 100% 0 0 1:35
Ovince Saint Preux 0 9 of 19 47% 9 of 19 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Ben Rothwell 0 19 of 41 46% 24 of 47 0 of 2 0% 0 0 1:30
Ovince Saint Preux 1 13 of 27 48% 16 of 31 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:22
3 Ben Rothwell 0 30 of 55 54% 44 of 69 0 of 0 --- 0 0 2:44
Ovince Saint Preux 0 20 of 36 55% 21 of 37 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Ben Rothwell 56 of 110 50% 37 of 89 15 of 17 4 of 4 40 of 79 14 of 29 2 of 2
Ovince Saint Preux 42 of 82 51% 27 of 62 13 of 15 2 of 5 33 of 70 9 of 12 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Ben Rothwell 7 of 14 50% 3 of 10 4 of 4 0 of 0 5 of 12 0 of 0 2 of 2
Ovince Saint Preux 9 of 19 47% 2 of 7 6 of 8 1 of 4 9 of 19 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Ben Rothwell 19 of 41 46% 13 of 35 5 of 5 1 of 1 13 of 30 6 of 11 0 of 0
Ovince Saint Preux 13 of 27 48% 6 of 20 6 of 6 1 of 1 10 of 23 3 of 4 0 of 0
3 Ben Rothwell 30 of 55 54% 21 of 44 6 of 8 3 of 3 22 of 37 8 of 18 0 of 0
Ovince Saint Preux 20 of 36 55% 19 of 35 1 of 1 0 of 0 14 of 28 6 of 8 0 of 0
BI
Big Brady Expert Lean picked May 11, 2020 (2 days before fight)
Ben Rothwell

Big Brady leans with Ben Rothwell as an underdog, believing Rothwell's power and chin give him a good chance to knock out Ovince Saint Preux. He thinks OSP will struggle to take Rothwell down and that the fight will stay on the feet, where Rothwell has the advantage. He acknowledges OSP could win a decision if Rothwell fights poorly, but sees a knockout as more likely and considers betting on Rothwell at plus odds.

Rothwell wins by knockout; considering a bet at +120
"I am thinking about placing a bet on Ben Rothwell especially at those odds"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Lean picked May 12, 2020 (1 day before fight)
Ovince Saint Preux

Daniel Levi picks OSP, citing his athleticism and speed advantage over Rothwell, who has looked slow since his suspension. He notes OSP's suspect chin and cardio at heavyweight, and says he won't bet him at -140 due to those concerns, but still picks him for the win.

I will not play him at that line with that extra weight with that suspect cardio in that suspect chin
"I Eileen OSP but from a betting perspective I will not play him at that line"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked May 6, 2020 (7 days before fight)
Ben Rothwell

The MMA Guru picks Ben Rothwell, noting that OSP is moving up to heavyweight and his chin won't magically improve. He highlights Rothwell's durability, having taken shots from Junior dos Santos and Blagojevich, and believes Rothwell will smother OSP and finish him in the second round. He also points out that OSP is 37 and has been rocked in recent fights.

TKO in the second round
"I'm gonna go with Ben Rothwell... he's gonna go out there put the pressure on OSP smother him... KO him in the second round."