UFC 194: Aldo vs. McGregor · Dec 12, 2015 · Welterweight · Completed
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Age 48
Height 6' 1"
Reach 72.0"
Weight 170 lbs.
Stance Southpaw
Age 37
Height 5' 11"
Reach 72.0"
Weight 170 lbs.
Stance Switch
Career Averages - Demian Maia
1.8 SLpM
43.0% Str. Acc.
2.07 SApM
63.0% Str. Def.
2.49 TD Avg
24.0% TD Acc.
61.0% TD Def.
1.0 Sub. Avg
Career Averages - Gunnar Nelson
1.77 SLpM
61.0% Str. Acc.
3.06 SApM
48.0% Str. Def.
2.0 TD Avg
52.0% TD Acc.
68.0% TD Def.
1.0 Sub. Avg
Demian Maia - Fight History
LOSS vs Belal Muhammad
Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC 263: Adesanya vs. Vettori 2 · Jun 12, 2021
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Belal Muhammad 0 21 of 53 39% 23 of 55 1 of 21 4% 0 0 4:14
Demian Maia 0 45 of 127 35% 92 of 177 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Belal Muhammad 0 2 of 5 40% 4 of 7 1 of 11 9% 0 0 2:30
Demian Maia 0 5 of 21 23% 10 of 27 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Belal Muhammad 0 7 of 19 36% 7 of 19 0 of 4 0% 0 0 0:46
Demian Maia 0 19 of 47 40% 34 of 63 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Belal Muhammad 0 12 of 29 41% 12 of 29 0 of 6 0% 0 0 0:58
Demian Maia 0 21 of 59 35% 48 of 87 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Belal Muhammad 21 of 53 39% 21 of 53 0 of 0 0 of 0 20 of 52 1 of 1 0 of 0
Demian Maia 45 of 127 35% 38 of 119 3 of 4 4 of 4 43 of 123 2 of 4 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Belal Muhammad 2 of 5 40% 2 of 5 0 of 0 0 of 0 2 of 5 0 of 0 0 of 0
Demian Maia 5 of 21 23% 5 of 21 0 of 0 0 of 0 5 of 20 0 of 1 0 of 0
2 Belal Muhammad 7 of 19 36% 7 of 19 0 of 0 0 of 0 7 of 19 0 of 0 0 of 0
Demian Maia 19 of 47 40% 14 of 41 1 of 2 4 of 4 18 of 45 1 of 2 0 of 0
3 Belal Muhammad 12 of 29 41% 12 of 29 0 of 0 0 of 0 11 of 28 1 of 1 0 of 0
Demian Maia 21 of 59 35% 19 of 57 2 of 2 0 of 0 20 of 58 1 of 1 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Demian Maia vs. Belal Muhammad

Round 1
This next match at welterweight is a grappler’s delight, as the legendary submission specialist Maia (28-10, 22-10 UFC) will try to become the first man to tap out the durable Muhammad (18-3, 1 NC; 9-3 UFC). Enjoying this fight with the best seat in the house is referee Jason Herzog, and the two have nothing but respect for one another and touch gloves. Muhammad reaches out with several punches, and the Brazilian is right there to greet him with punches. Maia eats a few on the chin and shoots in low for a takedown, but it gets stuffed with ease. Maia comes out with a solid right hand that surprises Muhammad, and he uses this to pursue a single from afar. The grappling legend keeps the left leg elevated as he continues to pursue it, but he has to abandon it when Muhammad sprawls against the fence properly. Maia goes back after the submission, and he rips Muhammad’s knee out from beneath him to secure the takedown. Muhammad’s eyes are wide as he is surprised that this happened to him, and he walks up to his feet to stand back up. Muhammad lifts his leg all the way in the air to break the grip, and he backs away to get his feet from beneath him. Muhammad answers with a solid right hand, and he pushes away a leaping takedown attempt from Maia shortly thereafter. Muhammad has his leg grabbed again, and he hops back to the fence to keep his balance. Maia eats an elbow as he pursues the single, but Muhammad is able to put his leg down for a moment and pull it back. Maia backs away and evades the punches that come his way, but a left hand finds its home on his chin. A stiff jab from Muhammad backs Maia off, and Maia fakes a takedown to draw out a reaction. Maia puts another attempt on Muhammad with the single, and he lifts the leg up high to take Muhammad down but cannot get it. Muhammad hops to and fro with his back on the wire, and Maia sticks to him like glue as he is intent on putting Muhammad on his back. Muhammad is able to put his leg down to the ground again, and he uses the other to sling a head kick that gets blocked right before the bell.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Maia
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Maia
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Maia

Round 2
There is a quick glove touch to start off the round, and Maia follows it with a left hand. Muhammad kicks the lead leg and hops back before Maia can snatch it up. The American gets off a few jabs here and there as he tries to find his range and keep a safe distance, timing uppercut feints and marking up Maia’s nose with strikes. Maia lunges forward with a looping left hand that hits nothing but air, and there is a lengthy stalemate as they look for angles. Maia drops down for a low single, and Muhammad sticks him with punches from far out. Maia turns a punch to a takedown attempt in the center of the cage, and Muhammad sprawls and stops it from happening. Muhammad makes him pay with a right hand after breaking up the attempt, and he swats away a few half-hearted punches from the Brazilian. Maia pursues another takedown, and Muhammad jumps far away to get out of harm’s way. Muhammad stings Maia with crisp punch combinations, and he hurts Maia with a right hand as he is feeling more comfortable to let his hands go. Muhammad paws out several left hands to break up Maia’s forward movement, and he kicks the lead leg hard. Maia tries to take him down, but his attempts are more labored and Muhammad sees it coming from a mile away. “Remember the Name” makes Maia remember his fists as he introduces them to Maia’s chin a few times, until Maia charges in for a desperate single leg takedown. When the Brazilian lifts the leg up, Muhammad keeps his balance and stays upright. When Maia tries for one last takedown, Muhammad defends with elbows on the side of the head until time expires.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Muhammad
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Muhammad
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Muhammad

Round 3
There is one final touch of gloves for the last round, and Muhammad is more comfortable in the center of the cage as he jabs his way out. Maia gets one back, but Muhammad triples up on jabs. Maia dives for a takedown, and Muhammad springs out of danger without much concern. Muhammad gets off a head kick that still does damage even though it is fully blocked, and a right hand hurts the 43-year-old. Maia wings a left hand, but Muhammad’s strikes are more accurate and quicker. There is another head kick from Muhammad, and when it gets blocked, the Roufusport product sticks Maia with a jab. Maia shoots low for a single, and Muhammad does not seem concerned as he stops it once more. Muhammad jabs and continues to redden Maia’s face up, and a clubbing left hand frustrates Maia. Muhammad staves off a feeble single so that he can chain punches together, and he tees off on the fading Brazilian with combinations. Maia can do little but flirt with takedowns, and Muhammad drills him with a shovel uppercut but gets caught with an overhand left. Muhammad pulls his leg back before it gets snagged, and Maia telegraphs these shots every time and does not vary his approach. Muhammad aims a head kick at him, but it too is blocked. Maia crashes forward with a single, and “Remember the Name” posts a stellar takedown defense rate when he stops that one from succeeding. Muhammad protects his leg when Maia latches on to it, punching the Brazilian in the side of the head as Maia lumbers towards him. Muhammad is forced to defend single after single, and Maia lifts the leg but cannot ground him. The gritty fight comes to an end in this position.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Muhammad (29-28 Muhammad)
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Muhammad (29-28 Muhammad)
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Muhammad (29-28 Muhammad)

The Official Result
Belal Muhammad def. Demian Maia via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Jun 8, 2021 (4 days before fight)
Belal Muhammad

Big Brady picks Belal Muhammad, citing his youth, cardio, and volume advantage. He is concerned about Muhammad's untested takedown defense against a grappler like Maia, but believes Maia's age (43) will be a factor. He expects Muhammad to win a decision, possibly 29-28 or 30-27.

Muhammad by decision
"i'm gonna take muhammad um i just don't feel all that great about it"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Jun 9, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Demian Maia

Cody sees this as a dog or pass situation. He notes Maia's age and slow striking but believes if Maia gets takedowns, he can submit Muhammad. He is interested in a small sprinkle on Maia by submission at +400, as Maia has a history of taking down better wrestlers.

Maia by submission (+400)
"i'm interested in maya by sub"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Jun 10, 2021 (2 days before fight)
Belal Muhammad

Daniel Levi picks Belal Muhammad, stating that no 43-year-old is beating him. He emphasizes Muhammad's pace and cardio, and that Maia's blueprint has been exposed. He expects Muhammad to outwork Maia, especially in later rounds, and predicts a dominant decision. He calls Muhammad the most sure thing among the favorites.

by decision (30-26 or 29-27)
"no 43 year old is beating balaam muhammad in a fight period"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Jun 12, 2021 (fight day)
Demian Maia

Maia's jiu-jitsu is a level above anyone Muhammad has faced. Muhammad is a jack-of-all-trades but lacks a finishing threat, while Maia can latch on and submit him. Muhammad's takedown defense hasn't been tested by a grappler of Maia's caliber. Maia's age and cardio are concerns, but he should find a submission in the early rounds.

Maia by submission (+400), Maia by second-round submission
"I'm going to go with Demian Maia and I'm going to take him to win this fight via submission... sprinkle that sub prop because I do think it could be lively here."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert picked Jun 9, 2021 (3 days before fight)

Paul agrees it's a dog or pass situation. He notes Maia's age and the fact that Muhammad has never faced a wrestler, but he doesn't have a strong lean either way. He is not interested in laying the wood on Muhammad at -230.

"i think it's a dog or pass situation regardless"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jun 4, 2021 (8 days before fight)
Belal Muhammad

The MMA Guru picks Belal Muhammad, believing Maia is past his prime with lowered testosterone. He notes Muhammad's cardio, takedown defense, and recent experience against Leon Edwards. He expects Muhammad to lose the first round to Maia's grappling but come back in rounds 2 and 3 with volume, winning a 29-28 decision.

"i'm going with balaam muhammad okay i really believe he wins this one"
LOSS vs Gilbert Burns
TKO (punches) R1 2:34 · UFC Fight Night: Lee vs. Oliveira · Mar 14, 2020
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Gilbert Burns 0 4 of 7 57% 4 of 7 2 of 2 100% 0 0 1:24
Demian Maia 1 13 of 16 81% 14 of 17 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:04
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Gilbert Burns 0 4 of 7 57% 4 of 7 2 of 2 100% 0 0 1:24
Demian Maia 1 13 of 16 81% 14 of 17 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:04
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Gilbert Burns 4 of 7 57% 4 of 7 0 of 0 0 of 0 4 of 7 0 of 0 0 of 0
Demian Maia 13 of 16 81% 10 of 13 1 of 1 2 of 2 5 of 7 0 of 0 8 of 9
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Gilbert Burns 4 of 7 57% 4 of 7 0 of 0 0 of 0 4 of 7 0 of 0 0 of 0
Demian Maia 13 of 16 81% 10 of 13 1 of 1 2 of 2 5 of 7 0 of 0 8 of 9
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Demian Maia vs. Gilbert Burns

Round 1
In the only bout of the evening between two fighters representing Brazil, two of the most highly decorated submission artists in the welterweight division face off when Maia (28-9, 22-9 UFC) tests his skills against Burns (17-3, 10-3 UFC). Together, the two have submitted a healthy 22 opponents across their 45 victories, and referee Osiris Maia will be the third Brazilian in the cage. They race to the center of the Octagon, and Maia sticks out a jab but it is Burns that throws something of note first, in the form of a right hand that misses. Burns lands a leg kick, while Maia scores a left hook. Burns scores two more kicks, and Maia comes back with that same left. Maia is pushing the pace in Burns, with a left hand that does little more than set up a single leg takedown. Burns nearly welcomes the takedown, fishing for a heel hook before abandoning it to stand up. The former title challenger keeps on him, nearly taking Burns’ back while pushing him against the fence and threatening with another takedown. As Burns tries to roll, Maia fishes for a rear-naked choke, and gets a hook in as Burns fights off the arm that wraps around his throat.
Burns slips out the back door and stands back up before anything comes from it, and blasts Maia with a monster left hook. Maia crumples to the canvas, and Burns celebrates by throwing his arms in the air.
He looks to the referee to call the fight, but none come, so Burns chases after him and swarms him with punches until the ref stops the action. This is an enormous win for Burns, who smashes a top-five opponent with style points, and immediately stakes his claim as an elite fighter in the division.

The Official Result
Gilbert Burns def. Demian Maia R1 2:34 via TKO (Punches)
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Mar 12, 2020 (2 days before fight)
Gilbert Burns

Daniel picks Burns, citing his power and youth. He thinks Maia's stand-up is a liability and that Burns can hurt him. He notes Burns has the jiu-jitsu to avoid submissions and predicts a decision win for Burns.

"i'ma go with Gilbert burns imma go with the younger guy and I think that uh he hurts my somewhere along the way and one's a decision"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Mar 6, 2020 (8 days before fight)
Gilbert Burns

The host picks Gilbert Burns over Demian Maia. He notes that Maia has not been submitting opponents recently, as seen in his fight with Anthony Rocco Martin. Burns is a three-time BJJ world champion and will be able to stay out of submissions. He expects Burns to win by third-round TKO, as Maia fades in later rounds due to age and weight cut. He calls Burns an underdog but believes he has this fight in the bag.

third round TKO, underdog
"Gilbert burns by TKO I'm calling it as an underdog I think he's got this one in the bag"
WIN vs Ben Askren
Technical Submission (rear-naked choke) R3 3:54 · UFC Fight Night: Maia vs. Askren · Oct 26, 2019
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Demian Maia 0 69 of 122 56% 84 of 137 0 of 0 --- 1 2 1:29
Ben Askren 0 63 of 127 49% 102 of 168 4 of 7 57% 0 1 1:54
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Demian Maia 0 28 of 54 51% 31 of 57 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Ben Askren 0 27 of 45 60% 44 of 62 1 of 2 50% 0 0 0:46
2 Demian Maia 0 23 of 44 52% 31 of 52 0 of 0 --- 0 1 0:38
Ben Askren 0 22 of 53 41% 31 of 62 1 of 1 100% 0 1 0:35
3 Demian Maia 0 18 of 24 75% 22 of 28 0 of 0 --- 1 1 0:51
Ben Askren 0 14 of 29 48% 27 of 44 2 of 4 50% 0 0 0:33
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Demian Maia 69 of 122 56% 44 of 88 25 of 34 0 of 0 49 of 99 17 of 20 3 of 3
Ben Askren 63 of 127 49% 54 of 116 4 of 6 5 of 5 46 of 108 11 of 13 6 of 6
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Demian Maia 28 of 54 51% 16 of 36 12 of 18 0 of 0 18 of 41 10 of 13 0 of 0
Ben Askren 27 of 45 60% 21 of 39 2 of 2 4 of 4 17 of 35 8 of 8 2 of 2
2 Demian Maia 23 of 44 52% 15 of 33 8 of 11 0 of 0 19 of 40 3 of 3 1 of 1
Ben Askren 22 of 53 41% 21 of 50 0 of 2 1 of 1 18 of 47 2 of 4 2 of 2
3 Demian Maia 18 of 24 75% 13 of 19 5 of 5 0 of 0 12 of 18 4 of 4 2 of 2
Ben Askren 14 of 29 48% 12 of 27 2 of 2 0 of 0 11 of 26 1 of 1 2 of 2
Decision (majority) (29–28, 29–28, 28–28) R3 5:00 · UFC on ESPN: Ngannou vs. dos Santos · Jun 29, 2019
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Demian Maia 0 3 of 12 25% 74 of 86 3 of 9 33% 0 1 6:02
Anthony Rocco Martin 0 22 of 95 23% 36 of 109 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:11
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Demian Maia 0 2 of 5 40% 31 of 34 1 of 2 50% 0 0 2:42
Anthony Rocco Martin 0 3 of 15 20% 9 of 21 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:30
2 Demian Maia 0 0 of 3 0% 42 of 48 2 of 5 40% 0 1 3:20
Anthony Rocco Martin 0 3 of 16 18% 7 of 20 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:12
3 Demian Maia 0 1 of 4 25% 1 of 4 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:00
Anthony Rocco Martin 0 16 of 64 25% 20 of 68 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:29
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Demian Maia 3 of 12 25% 3 of 12 0 of 0 0 of 0 2 of 11 0 of 0 1 of 1
Anthony Rocco Martin 22 of 95 23% 13 of 81 7 of 12 2 of 2 16 of 86 1 of 1 5 of 8
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Demian Maia 2 of 5 40% 2 of 5 0 of 0 0 of 0 1 of 4 0 of 0 1 of 1
Anthony Rocco Martin 3 of 15 20% 2 of 12 0 of 2 1 of 1 2 of 14 1 of 1 0 of 0
2 Demian Maia 0 of 3 0% 0 of 3 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 3 0 of 0 0 of 0
Anthony Rocco Martin 3 of 16 18% 3 of 16 0 of 0 0 of 0 3 of 16 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Demian Maia 1 of 4 25% 1 of 4 0 of 0 0 of 0 1 of 4 0 of 0 0 of 0
Anthony Rocco Martin 16 of 64 25% 8 of 53 7 of 10 1 of 1 11 of 56 0 of 0 5 of 8
WIN vs Lyman Good
Submission (rear-naked choke) R1 2:38 · UFC Fight Night: Assunção vs. Moraes 2 · Feb 02, 2019
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Demian Maia 0 0 of 1 0% 8 of 9 2 of 4 50% 2 0 2:12
Lyman Good 0 0 of 2 0% 0 of 2 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Demian Maia 0 0 of 1 0% 8 of 9 2 of 4 50% 2 0 2:12
Lyman Good 0 0 of 2 0% 0 of 2 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Demian Maia 0 of 1 0% 0 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 0
Lyman Good 0 of 2 0% 0 of 2 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 2 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Demian Maia 0 of 1 0% 0 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 0
Lyman Good 0 of 2 0% 0 of 2 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 2 0 of 0 0 of 0
LOSS vs Kamaru Usman
Decision (unanimous) (50–45, 49–46, 49–46) R5 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Maia vs. Usman · May 19, 2018
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Kamaru Usman 0 27 of 87 31% 33 of 94 0 of 15 0% 0 0 2:01
Demian Maia 1 66 of 209 31% 97 of 244 0 of 0 --- 0 0 4:18
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Kamaru Usman 0 5 of 12 41% 10 of 17 0 of 1 0% 0 0 2:01
Demian Maia 0 12 of 29 41% 13 of 30 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Kamaru Usman 0 7 of 18 38% 8 of 20 0 of 4 0% 0 0 0:00
Demian Maia 0 12 of 47 25% 16 of 52 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:37
3 Kamaru Usman 0 4 of 25 16% 4 of 25 0 of 4 0% 0 0 0:00
Demian Maia 0 13 of 53 24% 16 of 56 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:26
4 Kamaru Usman 0 4 of 9 44% 4 of 9 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:00
Demian Maia 1 16 of 42 38% 32 of 58 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:31
5 Kamaru Usman 0 7 of 23 30% 7 of 23 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:00
Demian Maia 0 13 of 38 34% 20 of 48 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:44
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Kamaru Usman 27 of 87 31% 26 of 85 1 of 2 0 of 0 25 of 85 1 of 1 1 of 1
Demian Maia 66 of 209 31% 49 of 181 4 of 12 13 of 16 55 of 187 1 of 5 10 of 17
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Kamaru Usman 5 of 12 41% 5 of 12 0 of 0 0 of 0 5 of 12 0 of 0 0 of 0
Demian Maia 12 of 29 41% 6 of 22 0 of 1 6 of 6 12 of 29 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Kamaru Usman 7 of 18 38% 7 of 18 0 of 0 0 of 0 6 of 17 1 of 1 0 of 0
Demian Maia 12 of 47 25% 9 of 43 1 of 2 2 of 2 10 of 43 1 of 3 1 of 1
3 Kamaru Usman 4 of 25 16% 4 of 25 0 of 0 0 of 0 4 of 25 0 of 0 0 of 0
Demian Maia 13 of 53 24% 9 of 44 2 of 5 2 of 4 13 of 51 0 of 0 0 of 2
4 Kamaru Usman 4 of 9 44% 4 of 9 0 of 0 0 of 0 4 of 9 0 of 0 0 of 0
Demian Maia 16 of 42 38% 14 of 38 0 of 2 2 of 2 10 of 33 0 of 0 6 of 9
5 Kamaru Usman 7 of 23 30% 6 of 21 1 of 2 0 of 0 6 of 22 0 of 0 1 of 1
Demian Maia 13 of 38 34% 11 of 34 1 of 2 1 of 2 10 of 31 0 of 2 3 of 5
LOSS vs Colby Covington
Decision (unanimous) (29–27, 30–27, 30–26) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Brunson vs. Machida · Oct 28, 2017
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Colby Covington 0 53 of 151 35% 59 of 157 0 of 13 0% 0 0 0:02
Demian Maia 0 88 of 317 27% 121 of 351 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:46
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Colby Covington 0 29 of 66 43% 31 of 68 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:02
Demian Maia 0 37 of 125 29% 44 of 132 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:06
2 Colby Covington 0 11 of 38 28% 12 of 39 0 of 6 0% 0 0 0:00
Demian Maia 0 22 of 83 26% 25 of 86 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:35
3 Colby Covington 0 13 of 47 27% 16 of 50 0 of 5 0% 0 0 0:00
Demian Maia 0 29 of 109 26% 52 of 133 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:05
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Colby Covington 53 of 151 35% 53 of 149 0 of 1 0 of 1 51 of 148 2 of 3 0 of 0
Demian Maia 88 of 317 27% 65 of 286 1 of 4 22 of 27 81 of 304 4 of 8 3 of 5
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Colby Covington 29 of 66 43% 29 of 66 0 of 0 0 of 0 29 of 66 0 of 0 0 of 0
Demian Maia 37 of 125 29% 18 of 99 1 of 4 18 of 22 37 of 125 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Colby Covington 11 of 38 28% 11 of 37 0 of 0 0 of 1 11 of 37 0 of 1 0 of 0
Demian Maia 22 of 83 26% 20 of 80 0 of 0 2 of 3 20 of 77 2 of 5 0 of 1
3 Colby Covington 13 of 47 27% 13 of 46 0 of 1 0 of 0 11 of 45 2 of 2 0 of 0
Demian Maia 29 of 109 26% 27 of 107 0 of 0 2 of 2 24 of 102 2 of 3 3 of 4
LOSS vs Tyron Woodley
Decision (unanimous) (50–45, 49–46, 49–46) R5 5:00 · UFC 214: Cormier vs. Jones 2 · Jul 29, 2017
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Tyron Woodley 1 57 of 153 37% 57 of 153 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:06
Demian Maia 0 28 of 89 31% 29 of 90 0 of 21 0% 0 0 0:53
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Tyron Woodley 0 6 of 18 33% 6 of 18 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Demian Maia 0 3 of 6 50% 3 of 6 0 of 6 0% 0 0 0:38
2 Tyron Woodley 1 14 of 29 48% 14 of 29 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:04
Demian Maia 0 4 of 14 28% 4 of 14 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:00
3 Tyron Woodley 0 12 of 41 29% 12 of 41 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Demian Maia 0 8 of 24 33% 8 of 24 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:00
4 Tyron Woodley 0 15 of 39 38% 15 of 39 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:01
Demian Maia 0 5 of 25 20% 5 of 25 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:11
5 Tyron Woodley 0 10 of 26 38% 10 of 26 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:01
Demian Maia 0 8 of 20 40% 9 of 21 0 of 7 0% 0 0 0:04
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Tyron Woodley 57 of 153 37% 40 of 131 13 of 18 4 of 4 56 of 152 1 of 1 0 of 0
Demian Maia 28 of 89 31% 23 of 83 2 of 3 3 of 3 26 of 87 2 of 2 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Tyron Woodley 6 of 18 33% 5 of 16 1 of 2 0 of 0 6 of 18 0 of 0 0 of 0
Demian Maia 3 of 6 50% 3 of 6 0 of 0 0 of 0 3 of 6 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Tyron Woodley 14 of 29 48% 9 of 24 3 of 3 2 of 2 14 of 29 0 of 0 0 of 0
Demian Maia 4 of 14 28% 4 of 14 0 of 0 0 of 0 4 of 14 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Tyron Woodley 12 of 41 29% 9 of 37 1 of 2 2 of 2 12 of 41 0 of 0 0 of 0
Demian Maia 8 of 24 33% 6 of 22 0 of 0 2 of 2 8 of 24 0 of 0 0 of 0
4 Tyron Woodley 15 of 39 38% 11 of 32 4 of 7 0 of 0 15 of 39 0 of 0 0 of 0
Demian Maia 5 of 25 20% 4 of 23 0 of 1 1 of 1 5 of 25 0 of 0 0 of 0
5 Tyron Woodley 10 of 26 38% 6 of 22 4 of 4 0 of 0 9 of 25 1 of 1 0 of 0
Demian Maia 8 of 20 40% 6 of 18 2 of 2 0 of 0 6 of 18 2 of 2 0 of 0
Gunnar Nelson - Fight History
CANCEL vs Neil Magny
LOSS vs Kevin Holland
Decision R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Edwards vs. Brady · Mar 22, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Gunnar Nelson 0 15 of 24 62% 30 of 44 3 of 10 30% 1 0 9:29
Kevin Holland 1 55 of 89 61% 138 of 178 0 of 1 0% 0 0 1:04
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Gunnar Nelson 0 5 of 9 55% 13 of 20 1 of 1 100% 0 0 2:55
Kevin Holland 1 19 of 37 51% 31 of 51 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:08
2 Gunnar Nelson 0 3 of 6 50% 7 of 11 1 of 5 20% 0 0 3:22
Kevin Holland 0 17 of 23 73% 73 of 82 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:29
3 Gunnar Nelson 0 7 of 9 77% 10 of 13 1 of 4 25% 1 0 3:12
Kevin Holland 0 19 of 29 65% 34 of 45 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:27
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Gunnar Nelson 15 of 24 62% 10 of 19 4 of 4 1 of 1 2 of 7 7 of 8 6 of 9
Kevin Holland 55 of 89 61% 30 of 57 15 of 20 10 of 12 15 of 34 22 of 27 18 of 28
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Gunnar Nelson 5 of 9 55% 3 of 7 1 of 1 1 of 1 1 of 4 1 of 1 3 of 4
Kevin Holland 19 of 37 51% 10 of 24 3 of 5 6 of 8 9 of 20 4 of 4 6 of 13
2 Gunnar Nelson 3 of 6 50% 1 of 4 2 of 2 0 of 0 1 of 3 2 of 2 0 of 1
Kevin Holland 17 of 23 73% 9 of 15 6 of 6 2 of 2 3 of 7 6 of 7 8 of 9
3 Gunnar Nelson 7 of 9 77% 6 of 8 1 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 0 4 of 5 3 of 4
Kevin Holland 19 of 29 65% 11 of 18 6 of 9 2 of 2 3 of 7 12 of 16 4 of 6
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Kevin Holland vs. Gunnar Nelson
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Nelson (-130), Holland (+110)

Round 1
Dan Movahedi will referee Nelson’s first fight since March 2023. Holland opens with a pair of inside leg kicks. Nelson is operating from his usual karate stance. Another leg kick for Holland, who has a significant reach edge. Nelson tries to charge in, but he’s rebuffed by Holland. Holland with a long jab and right hand. Nelson shoots and gets Holland down. Holland is active from his back, threatening with submissions, but Nelson is a savvy grappler. Nelson stands and picks Holland up with one arm and both fighters share a laugh. Nelson goes back to work from above, but he’ll have to navigate his foe’s long limbs. Holland is landing hammerfists from his bck on occasion. Nelson with a solid right from top position. Holland lands an elbow from his back. Nelson is struggling to find openings for offense from above. The Iceland native drops a short elbow. Nelson stands and has to worry about Holland’s upkicks before moving back on top. They stand late in the round, and Holland drops Nelson with a one-two. He hovers over Nelson and drops heavy standing to ground shots. Nelson is saved by the horn, but Holland might've landed one after the buzzer.

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

Round 2
Holland is aggressive, and he punches his way into the clinch behind an uppercut. Holland with a knee and a foot stomp. They separate and size each other up from range. Holland with a solid inside low kick. Holland is measuring the right hand that dropped Nelson in Round 1. Nelson is working hard for a takedown, but Holland is able to stay upright. Nelson adjusts against the fence, but Holland maintains his footing. Nelson is clinging to the leg, and Holland stays busy with short strikes. Nelson pulls Holland off the fence and drags him to the canvas with about 2:00 to go. Nelson is in top position, but Holland is active again, both with his guard and strikes from his back. Nelson is simply holding position as Holland continues to work from his back. Holland with an upkick as Nelson stands. Nelson works his way back into full guard as the round draws to a close.

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

Round 3
Holland chips away at the legs of Nelson before they collide in the clinch. Holland lands a knee in close. Nelson counters with uppercuts, but another Holland knee gets through. Nelson decides against continuing to trade offense in the clinch, and he changes levels for a takedown. Nelson moves into full mount with ease. Holland kicks off the fence to remove Nelson from mount, but the grappling ace is still in top position. Holland is warned to remove his toes from the cage. Nelson absorbs a series of heel strikes to to the head. He responds by dropping a right from above. Nelson transitions to an arm triangle during a scramble. He’s close to the cage, but it looks pretty deep. Holland looks comfortable for now, and he’s able to eventually escape to his feet. Holland pushes Nelson into the fence. Nelson is looking at the clock now. Holland with a knee to the midsection. Back at range, Holland connects with a front kick. Nelson closes the distance but eats another knee for his efforts. Holland denies a takedown and the welterweights battle in the clinch. Holland breaks free and falls to his back after missing on a knee before the horn sounds.

Sherdog Scores
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Nelson (29-28 Holland)
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Nelson (29-28 Holland)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Nelson (29-28 Holland)

The Official Result
Kevin Holland def. Gunnar Nelson via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28) R3 5:00
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Mar 16, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Kevin Holland

Angelo picks Kevin Holland despite his poor takedown defense, arguing that skill-wise Holland is the better fighter. He notes that Holland is likely fighting for his job at welterweight and will be motivated. He criticizes Gunnar Nelson's inactivity (2 years), poor striking differential, and lack of wins over active UFC fighters. He has a small bet on Holland.

Small bet on Kevin Holland
"I am going to pick Kevin and I know his takedown defense is worse than my six-year-old daughter's... but damn it at times he's a good fighter"
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Mar 18, 2025 (4 days before fight)
Kevin Holland

Brady is very hesitant but picks Holland, calling it 'One Last Ride'. He notes Nelson is 36, inactive (2 fights in 5 years), has no striking, and is coming off a 2-year layoff. Holland has an astronomical striking advantage and is fighting at welterweight where he belongs. Brady predicts a second-round knockout.

Holland by KO round 2
"One Last Ride Kevin Holland don't let me down knock this guy out give me Kevin Holland to win this fight and win this fight by second round knock out"
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Mar 20, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Gunnar Nelson

Connor agrees with Zane, picking Nelson. He highlights Holland's inability to wrestle seriously and his tendency to fall apart when pressured. Nelson's striking, though limited, will force Holland to close distance, leading to takedowns and submissions. Connor is confident Nelson will look the same despite the layoff.

Nelson opened at -133, currently -120; Holland opened at +102, currently +107.
"Yeah, I mean I just feel like because of the who gunner nelson always has been as a fighter ... he'll probably look pretty much exactly the same."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Mar 20, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Gunnar Nelson

The host notes Nelson doesn't fight often but still showcases superb jiu-jitsu. He expects Nelson to get a body lock, drag the fight to the ground, find the back, and secure a submission win over Holland.

submission
"I think he'll be able to showcase that once again here, eventually getting the body lock, dragging this fight to the ground, and eventually finding the back and wrapping up a submission win over Kevin Holland."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Mar 19, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Gunnar Nelson

The Guru confidently picks Gunnar Nelson, citing his superior jiu-jitsu and takedown entries. He expects Nelson to get a takedown, take Holland's back, and secure a rear-naked choke in the first round. He notes that Holland is susceptible to grapplers and has not finished anyone early in a long time. He acknowledges a small chance Holland lands a 45-70 kick but dismisses it.

submission round 1 (rear-naked choke)
"I'm gonna have to imagine Gana Nelson gets a takedown and gets a re naked choke over Kevin Holland"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Mar 20, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Gunnar Nelson

Zane confidently picks Nelson, arguing that Holland's poor wrestling and tendency to crash forward will play directly into Nelson's strengths. Nelson's karate-style striking and elite ground game will exploit Holland's lack of takedown defense and submission awareness. He expects Holland to either get taken down and submitted or run into Nelson's clinch.

Nelson opened at -133, currently -120; Holland opened at +102, currently +107.
"If we simply go with the assumption that nelson is going to look more or less the same ... I think kevin holland is going to leap right into his hands."
Submission (armbar) R1 4:51 · UFC 286: Edwards vs. Usman 3 · Mar 18, 2023
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Gunnar Nelson 0 10 of 11 90% 20 of 21 1 of 2 50% 1 0 3:13
Bryan Barberena 0 7 of 12 58% 18 of 23 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Gunnar Nelson 0 10 of 11 90% 20 of 21 1 of 2 50% 1 0 3:13
Bryan Barberena 0 7 of 12 58% 18 of 23 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Gunnar Nelson 10 of 11 90% 8 of 9 2 of 2 0 of 0 1 of 2 2 of 2 7 of 7
Bryan Barberena 7 of 12 58% 3 of 7 0 of 0 4 of 5 6 of 11 0 of 0 1 of 1
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Gunnar Nelson 10 of 11 90% 8 of 9 2 of 2 0 of 0 1 of 2 2 of 2 7 of 7
Bryan Barberena 7 of 12 58% 3 of 7 0 of 0 4 of 5 6 of 11 0 of 0 1 of 1
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Mar 15, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Gunnar Nelson

Angelo picks Nelson but is not betting. He thinks Nelson's ground game is far superior and Barberena is tough but not technical. He notes Nelson's takedowns are telegraphed but Barberena will close distance and get clinched. He worries Nelson might not be motivated and could be a parlay buster.

"I do think Gunner Nelson wins because there's a bigger gap on the ground than there is anywhere else in this fight."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Mar 14, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Gunnar Nelson

Big Brady picks Nelson confidently, citing Barberena's atrocious takedown defense (taken down multiple times by lower-level fighters). He believes Nelson will take him down and submit him early. He predicts a first-round submission, noting Barberena was just submitted by RDA.

"I'm going to take Gunner Nelson first round sub"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Mar 15, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Gunnar Nelson

Cody picks Nelson, emphasizing Barberena's poor takedown defense and tendency to give up his back. He notes Nelson's elite back-taking and body triangle control. He thinks Nelson wins by decision or submission, but after Nelson's last fight where he didn't chase submissions, he's less sure about a finish. He says the line is reflective of what should happen but feels trappy due to Nelson's inactivity and age.

"Gunner Nelson for me but minus 355... I think it's probably close to about right... the path is very clearly there"
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Apr 30, 2023 (fight day)
Gunnar Nelson

Connor picks Nelson based on his wrestling and grappling advantage. He notes that Barberena is slow-footed and vulnerable to takedowns, as shown by RDA easily taking him down. Nelson has a quick shot and good clinch trips. Connor acknowledges that Nelson's striking defense is poor and he can be shocked standing, but believes Nelson's path to victory is clear via takedowns and control. He also mentions that Barberena's scrambling is solid but Nelson's control grappling is superior.

Nelson opened -300, currently -391; Barberena opened +250, currently +297
"It comes down to Gunnar Nelson's speed and the wrestling and his grappling that is going to... that's like the ace of his sleeve."
JA
Jacob Lines Expert Confident picked Mar 15, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Gunnar Nelson

Jacob calls Nelson his most confident play on the card. He thinks Barberena is not a powerful puncher and will struggle with Nelson's range. He expects Barberena to close distance and get taken down via body clinch. He notes everyone takes Barberena down and Nelson should dominate on the ground.

"the gunar is my most confident play on this card because I think it is a perfect match of form."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Mar 13, 2023 (5 days before fight)
Gunnar Nelson

Nelson is a high-level grappler with a karate-style striking base, but has struggled against top competition. Barberena is a durable brawler who has been finished by technically better fighters. Nelson should be able to take the fight to the ground and submit Barberena, though the submission prop may not offer value at the expected line.

submission (if plus money)
"I think that Gunner should win this fight... I think he does it via submission"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert picked Mar 15, 2023 (3 days before fight)

Paul does not make a clear pick. He discusses the trap potential: Nelson has had one fight in four years, is a small welterweight, and may not be the same fighter. He notes Barberena's ability to get back to his feet and that Nelson could get outstruck if he doesn't get a submission. He says he doesn't have the cojones to pick Barberena but has zero confidence in Nelson at the price.

"I don't know if I got the colonies to find barbarina I really don't... for this price point I have zero confidence in them"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Mar 13, 2023 (5 days before fight)
Gunnar Nelson

The MMA Guru picks Gunnar Nelson to win by rear-naked choke, citing Barberena's short notice and defensive flaws exposed by Rafael dos Anjos. He notes Barberena repeatedly made the same mistake of lowering his stance, allowing inside trips. Nelson is a technical grappler who will exploit that and find a finish. He does not see Barberena having success on the feet either.

Nelson wins by submission (rear-naked choke)
"I'm gonna go with Gunner Nelson getting himself a real naked choke win"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Apr 30, 2023 (fight day)
Gunnar Nelson

Zane agrees with Connor, emphasizing that Barberena's takedown defense is poor and Nelson's wrestling is a major threat. He notes that Barberena has been taken down multiple times by lesser wrestlers. Zane also points out that Nelson's striking is vulnerable but his grappling is elite. He thinks Nelson will likely get the fight to the ground and control it. Zane adds that Barberena's best chance is to keep it standing and land a big shot, but Nelson's speed and shot selection should prevail.

Nelson opened -300, currently -391; Barberena opened +250, currently +297
"It's just not a problem that's going to be solved against Gunnar Nelson."
WIN vs Takashi Sato
Decision (unanimous) (30–26, 30–26, 30–26) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Volkov vs. Aspinall · Mar 19, 2022
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Gunnar Nelson 0 44 of 55 80% 140 of 166 3 of 3 100% 1 0 8:09
Takashi Sato 0 9 of 23 39% 16 of 34 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Gunnar Nelson 0 24 of 29 82% 46 of 52 1 of 1 100% 0 0 2:05
Takashi Sato 0 4 of 12 33% 4 of 12 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Gunnar Nelson 0 12 of 16 75% 25 of 32 1 of 1 100% 0 0 2:36
Takashi Sato 0 3 of 4 75% 3 of 4 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Gunnar Nelson 0 8 of 10 80% 69 of 82 1 of 1 100% 1 0 3:28
Takashi Sato 0 2 of 7 28% 9 of 18 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Gunnar Nelson 44 of 55 80% 36 of 47 7 of 7 1 of 1 10 of 20 1 of 2 33 of 33
Takashi Sato 9 of 23 39% 4 of 16 2 of 4 3 of 3 9 of 23 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Gunnar Nelson 24 of 29 82% 21 of 26 2 of 2 1 of 1 4 of 8 0 of 1 20 of 20
Takashi Sato 4 of 12 33% 2 of 8 0 of 2 2 of 2 4 of 12 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Gunnar Nelson 12 of 16 75% 9 of 13 3 of 3 0 of 0 5 of 9 0 of 0 7 of 7
Takashi Sato 3 of 4 75% 1 of 2 1 of 1 1 of 1 3 of 4 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Gunnar Nelson 8 of 10 80% 6 of 8 2 of 2 0 of 0 1 of 3 1 of 1 6 of 6
Takashi Sato 2 of 7 28% 1 of 6 1 of 1 0 of 0 2 of 7 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Mar 12, 2022 (7 days before fight)
Gunnar Nelson

Angelo picks Gunnar Nelson, predicting a submission win. He notes that Nelson has been away for two years due to rib injuries but has a short-notice opponent with grappling holes. He worries about Nelson's takedown entries leaving him hittable but thinks the UFC set him up for a win. He says Nelson probably wins by submission but acknowledges the layoff makes it uncertain.

prediction: wins by submission
"i think the stars have a line for him here but i would not be surprised if we see a pretty unmotivated gunner nelson who's kind of just doing this because he wants to fight in europe one last time"
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Mar 14, 2022 (5 days before fight)
Gunnar Nelson

Big Brady picks Gunnar Nelson to win by first-round submission, but expresses concern about Nelson's two-year layoff. He believes if Nelson is anywhere near his best, he should submit Sato early, as Sato has been submitted three times and has poor ground game. Brady notes Nelson has fought elite competition like Gilbert Burns and Leon Edwards, while Sato's level is lower.

first round submission
"gunner nelson first round submission"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Mar 16, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Gunnar Nelson

Cody picks Nelson by submission, noting Nelson's superior grappling and Sato's submission liability. He thinks Nelson will get the fight to the mat and find a submission. He mentions the prop is minus 110 and he took it.

nelson by submission minus 110
"nelson by submission probably makes it look easy"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Mar 17, 2022 (2 days before fight)
Gunnar Nelson

Daniel Levi picks Gunnar Nelson by submission, noting that Sato has lost 75% of his fights by submission and that Nelson has 12 submission wins. He acknowledges Nelson's low striking volume and questions his motivation, but believes Nelson only needs one takedown to finish. Levi also mentions the hometown advantage for British fighters at the O2, suggesting a decision win is possible if it goes the distance. He calls it a 'dog or pass' situation due to the high price on Nelson.

Nelson by submission at -120; if goes to decision, Nelson wins
"most likely if gunny is anything like gunny used to be probably finds an opportunistic submission along the way"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Mar 16, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Gunnar Nelson

Nelson is a jiu-jitsu wizard who should get the fight to the ground and find a submission. Sato has been finished by submission in three of his last four losses, a huge red flag. However, ring rust and past injuries are concerns for Nelson. Sato has power and a karate style, but Nelson's grappling should be too much. I'd rather play Nelson inside the distance than the -450 line. I'm picking Nelson via second-round submission.

Nelson inside the distance; Nelson via submission round 2
"I do think that this is a tailor-made matchup for him to go out there and do what we all know he can do and that's use that jiu jitsu."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Mar 16, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Gunnar Nelson

Paul picks Nelson, emphasizing his world-class skills and Sato's tendency to fade. He believes Nelson's cardio and grappling will be too much, and that Sato's power is only a threat early. He thinks Nelson will win handily, possibly by submission.

"gunner nelson should win this one pretty handily"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Mar 14, 2022 (5 days before fight)
Gunnar Nelson

The Guru picks Gunnar Nelson but expects a first-round scare where Sato drops him. He believes Nelson will recover, get a takedown, and eventually secure a rear-naked choke in round two or three. He notes Nelson's close losses to Leon Edwards and Gilbert Burns, and argues that if Burns couldn't finish him, Sato won't either. He predicts a late submission.

rear-naked choke round 2 or 3
"i'm gonna go gunna nelson... he gets dropped badly in round one and has to really fight back... eventually getting like a re-naked choke"
LOSS vs Gilbert Burns
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Hermansson vs. Cannonier · Sep 28, 2019
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Gilbert Burns 0 20 of 36 55% 26 of 45 0 of 2 0% 0 0 4:49
Gunnar Nelson 0 30 of 76 39% 46 of 99 1 of 3 33% 1 0 1:55
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Gilbert Burns 0 7 of 13 53% 7 of 14 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:28
Gunnar Nelson 0 11 of 28 39% 11 of 30 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:15
2 Gilbert Burns 0 6 of 14 42% 7 of 17 0 of 2 0% 0 0 1:58
Gunnar Nelson 0 11 of 27 40% 18 of 34 0 of 1 0% 1 0 0:57
3 Gilbert Burns 0 7 of 9 77% 12 of 14 0 of 0 --- 0 0 2:23
Gunnar Nelson 0 8 of 21 38% 17 of 35 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:43
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Gilbert Burns 20 of 36 55% 9 of 23 4 of 5 7 of 8 18 of 32 2 of 3 0 of 1
Gunnar Nelson 30 of 76 39% 8 of 47 8 of 11 14 of 18 19 of 55 10 of 18 1 of 3
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Gilbert Burns 7 of 13 53% 4 of 9 1 of 2 2 of 2 7 of 12 0 of 0 0 of 1
Gunnar Nelson 11 of 28 39% 1 of 15 3 of 5 7 of 8 8 of 23 3 of 5 0 of 0
2 Gilbert Burns 6 of 14 42% 3 of 10 1 of 1 2 of 3 5 of 12 1 of 2 0 of 0
Gunnar Nelson 11 of 27 40% 4 of 18 4 of 5 3 of 4 6 of 15 4 of 9 1 of 3
3 Gilbert Burns 7 of 9 77% 2 of 4 2 of 2 3 of 3 6 of 8 1 of 1 0 of 0
Gunnar Nelson 8 of 21 38% 3 of 14 1 of 1 4 of 6 5 of 17 3 of 4 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Gunnar Nelson vs. Gilbert Burns

Round 1
A pair of welterweight submission specialists meet next, with Nelson (17-4-1, 8-4 UFC) looking to beat short-notice replacement Burns (16-3, 9-3 UFC). Referee Neil Hall is the third man inside the Octagon. The fight begins at range, with neither man ready to commit on any serious strikes. As Nelson tries to close the distance, Burns hits him with a leg kick and then a slapping left hand to separate them. Nelson sinks in a loud leg kick, but does not follow it with anything, allowing Burns to reply with one to Nelson's calf. "Gunni" tries to close the distance, but Burns defends before scoring another leg kick that bends the knee of Nelson. Nelson holds his hand outstretched, using it to find his range, and follows it with a right straight and a left hook that partially land. Burns commits to another leg kick, and then crashes forward but Nelson backs away. As Nelson comes in, he catches a knee, so he backs away and catches another leg kick for his troubles. The Icelandic fighter sneaks in a jab, and evades a low kick, as the two men seem content on engaging in a tentative kickboxing match. As Nelson comes in again, Burns sits down on an uppercut, forcing Nelson to retreat. The Brazilian charges in, winging shots that do not land before clinching up. Nelson scoops Burns' legs out from underneath him, and Burns tries for a leg lock but is nowhere near securing it as the round ends.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Burns
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Nelson
Mike Sloan scores the round: 10-9 Burns

Round 2
The second round opens with the two walking towards one another, and casually touch gloves before walking away. Burns starts out with a jab, and catches a side kick from Nelson. The action is few and far between as we get going, but Burns does score another low calf kick, and we can see Nelson's leg is changing color rapidly. "Gunni" whips a low kick that forces Burns to spin in a circle, and Nelson uses this moment to crash in and land a few strikes while Burns attempts to sit on the counter. Nelson tries to set up a takedown, and Burns is holding tight this time, but in the process Nelson scores a few short strikes in the clinch. Burns, with his back against the cage, looks confused as Nelson shoots in for a double leg that is easily stuffed. The Brazilian separates, and then crash together as Burns clubs Nelson with a right hand. With Nelson leaning on him, Burns tries to bring up a knee, causing Nelson to shrug his shoulders. The two break apart, and Nelson whiffs with a low kick. Nelson rushes in and tries to take the fight down again, but as they scuffle Burns judo throws him and lands Nelson on his head. "Gunni" immediately springs back up, so Burns leaps forward with a flying knee. As Nelson tries to take Burns down again, Burns defends it by trying to set up a brabo choke, but Nelson escapes. With 10 seconds left, Burns ends up on top and drops down a few hard punches, and the second stanza comes to a close.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Burns
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Burns
Mike Sloan scores the round: 10-9 Burns

Round 3
Burns opens up with a spinning kick that falls well short of the target, and then they trade leg kicks. They come together again, and Nelson looks for a body lock before switching to a single, and Burns defends the attempts one by one. "Gunni" tries to set up a Thai clinch, but Nelson uses that moment to drop in a few short strikes and a right over the top. As they break, Burns wings a right hand that partially lands, causing Nelson to shoot in for a double again. Burns is strong against the fence, and stands up his Icelandic opponent. Burns slashes Nelson with an elbow, forcing Nelson to once again try for a takedown. There is nothing to be had for that attempt either, although he is racking up control time until Burns is tired of leaning against the fence. As they separate, Nelson loads up with a punch to the body, and Burns swings with all his might with a right hand that nearly causes him to fall over. Burns scores a few more effective leg kicks before launching a head kick that Nelson ducks. Another leg kick from Burns causes Nelson's leg to briefly buckle, so "Gunni" shoots in for yet another takedown. Burns shrugs it off, and uses the opportunity to lift up Nelson and slam him down emphatically. With 30 seconds left, Burns takes his opponent's back momentarily, but Nelson scrambles and stands back up quickly. This close fight wraps with Burns pressing Nelson against the cage, and the judges undoubtedly have their hands full with this one.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Burns (30-27 Burns)
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Burns (29-28 Burns)
Mike Sloan scores the round: 10-9 Burns (30-27 Burns)

The Official Result
Gilbert Burns def. Gunnar Nelson via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
LOSS vs Leon Edwards
Decision (split) (29–27, 29–28, 28–29) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Till vs. Masvidal · Mar 16, 2019
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Leon Edwards 1 31 of 49 63% 47 of 69 2 of 3 66% 0 0 3:29
Gunnar Nelson 0 9 of 18 50% 27 of 38 3 of 4 75% 0 0 4:22
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Leon Edwards 0 5 of 9 55% 18 of 26 2 of 2 100% 0 0 2:18
Gunnar Nelson 0 3 of 3 100% 6 of 7 2 of 3 66% 0 0 1:26
2 Leon Edwards 1 23 of 36 63% 25 of 38 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:30
Gunnar Nelson 0 3 of 11 27% 3 of 11 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:38
3 Leon Edwards 0 3 of 4 75% 4 of 5 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:41
Gunnar Nelson 0 3 of 4 75% 18 of 20 1 of 1 100% 0 0 2:18
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Leon Edwards 31 of 49 63% 17 of 30 13 of 17 1 of 2 4 of 16 16 of 19 11 of 14
Gunnar Nelson 9 of 18 50% 3 of 10 4 of 5 2 of 3 4 of 12 5 of 6 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Leon Edwards 5 of 9 55% 0 of 1 4 of 7 1 of 1 1 of 5 4 of 4 0 of 0
Gunnar Nelson 3 of 3 100% 0 of 0 2 of 2 1 of 1 1 of 1 2 of 2 0 of 0
2 Leon Edwards 23 of 36 63% 16 of 27 7 of 8 0 of 1 3 of 11 9 of 11 11 of 14
Gunnar Nelson 3 of 11 27% 1 of 8 1 of 2 1 of 1 1 of 9 2 of 2 0 of 0
3 Leon Edwards 3 of 4 75% 1 of 2 2 of 2 0 of 0 0 of 0 3 of 4 0 of 0
Gunnar Nelson 3 of 4 75% 2 of 2 1 of 1 0 of 1 2 of 2 1 of 2 0 of 0
WIN vs Alex Oliveira
Submission (rear-naked choke) R2 4:17 · UFC 231: Holloway vs. Ortega · Dec 08, 2018
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Gunnar Nelson 0 36 of 49 73% 52 of 69 0 of 2 0% 0 1 3:06
Alex Oliveira 0 11 of 11 100% 20 of 20 2 of 5 40% 1 0 4:43
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Gunnar Nelson 0 30 of 40 75% 39 of 53 0 of 0 --- 0 1 1:44
Alex Oliveira 0 2 of 2 100% 3 of 3 1 of 4 25% 0 0 2:14
2 Gunnar Nelson 0 6 of 9 66% 13 of 16 0 of 2 0% 0 0 1:22
Alex Oliveira 0 9 of 9 100% 17 of 17 1 of 1 100% 1 0 2:29
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Gunnar Nelson 36 of 49 73% 27 of 40 6 of 6 3 of 3 3 of 4 9 of 9 24 of 36
Alex Oliveira 11 of 11 100% 10 of 10 1 of 1 0 of 0 1 of 1 1 of 1 9 of 9
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Gunnar Nelson 30 of 40 75% 25 of 35 4 of 4 1 of 1 1 of 1 5 of 5 24 of 34
Alex Oliveira 2 of 2 100% 2 of 2 0 of 0 0 of 0 1 of 1 0 of 0 1 of 1
2 Gunnar Nelson 6 of 9 66% 2 of 5 2 of 2 2 of 2 2 of 3 4 of 4 0 of 2
Alex Oliveira 9 of 9 100% 8 of 8 1 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 0 1 of 1 8 of 8
KO (punches) R1 1:22 · UFC Fight Night: Nelson vs. Ponzinibbio · Jul 16, 2017
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Santiago Ponzinibbio 0 5 of 7 71% 5 of 7 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Gunnar Nelson 1 7 of 12 58% 7 of 12 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:03
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Santiago Ponzinibbio 0 5 of 7 71% 5 of 7 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Gunnar Nelson 1 7 of 12 58% 7 of 12 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:03
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Santiago Ponzinibbio 5 of 7 71% 4 of 6 0 of 0 1 of 1 5 of 7 0 of 0 0 of 0
Gunnar Nelson 7 of 12 58% 7 of 12 0 of 0 0 of 0 4 of 9 0 of 0 3 of 3
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Santiago Ponzinibbio 5 of 7 71% 4 of 6 0 of 0 1 of 1 5 of 7 0 of 0 0 of 0
Gunnar Nelson 7 of 12 58% 7 of 12 0 of 0 0 of 0 4 of 9 0 of 0 3 of 3