UFC 189: Mendes vs. McGregor · Jul 11, 2015 · Welterweight · Completed
Prev Fight UFC 189: Mendes vs. McGregor Next Fight
Age 37
Height 5' 11"
Reach 72.0"
Weight 170 lbs.
Stance Switch
Age 40
Height 6' 2"
Reach 74.0"
Weight 170 lbs.
Stance Switch
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
Career Averages - Brandon Thatch
2.7 SLpM
42.0% Str. Acc.
3.63 SApM
52.0% Str. Def.
1.36 TD Avg
66.0% TD Acc.
50.0% TD Def.
0.7 Sub. Avg
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
Brandon Thatch - Fight History
LOSS vs Niko Price
Submission (arm-triangle choke) R1 4:30 · UFC 207: Nunes vs. Rousey · Dec 30, 2016
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Niko Price 0 8 of 14 57% 9 of 15 0 of 0 --- 2 0 0:01
Brandon Thatch 0 6 of 16 37% 18 of 30 1 of 4 25% 2 0 2:52
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Niko Price 0 8 of 14 57% 9 of 15 0 of 0 --- 2 0 0:01
Brandon Thatch 0 6 of 16 37% 18 of 30 1 of 4 25% 2 0 2:52
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Niko Price 8 of 14 57% 4 of 9 0 of 0 4 of 5 5 of 11 3 of 3 0 of 0
Brandon Thatch 6 of 16 37% 3 of 12 1 of 1 2 of 3 4 of 12 1 of 1 1 of 3
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Niko Price 8 of 14 57% 4 of 9 0 of 0 4 of 5 5 of 11 3 of 3 0 of 0
Brandon Thatch 6 of 16 37% 3 of 12 1 of 1 2 of 3 4 of 12 1 of 1 1 of 3
Submission (arm-triangle choke) R3 4:11 · UFC 196: McGregor vs. Diaz · Mar 05, 2016
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Siyar Bahadurzada 0 30 of 53 56% 57 of 85 1 of 2 50% 0 0 0:29
Brandon Thatch 0 84 of 138 60% 170 of 235 3 of 3 100% 1 1 8:21
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Siyar Bahadurzada 0 20 of 32 62% 27 of 40 1 of 2 50% 0 0 0:27
Brandon Thatch 0 26 of 49 53% 34 of 57 0 of 0 --- 0 1 1:34
2 Siyar Bahadurzada 0 8 of 14 57% 24 of 34 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Brandon Thatch 0 34 of 48 70% 71 of 92 2 of 2 100% 0 0 4:03
3 Siyar Bahadurzada 0 2 of 7 28% 6 of 11 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Brandon Thatch 0 24 of 41 58% 65 of 86 1 of 1 100% 1 0 2:44
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Siyar Bahadurzada 30 of 53 56% 16 of 33 5 of 9 9 of 11 21 of 43 6 of 7 3 of 3
Brandon Thatch 84 of 138 60% 67 of 118 15 of 18 2 of 2 18 of 49 19 of 25 47 of 64
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Siyar Bahadurzada 20 of 32 62% 10 of 18 4 of 6 6 of 8 12 of 23 6 of 7 2 of 2
Brandon Thatch 26 of 49 53% 18 of 39 8 of 10 0 of 0 10 of 29 12 of 16 4 of 4
2 Siyar Bahadurzada 8 of 14 57% 5 of 10 1 of 2 2 of 2 8 of 14 0 of 0 0 of 0
Brandon Thatch 34 of 48 70% 29 of 42 4 of 5 1 of 1 3 of 10 5 of 6 26 of 32
3 Siyar Bahadurzada 2 of 7 28% 1 of 5 0 of 1 1 of 1 1 of 6 0 of 0 1 of 1
Brandon Thatch 24 of 41 58% 20 of 37 3 of 3 1 of 1 5 of 10 2 of 3 17 of 28
LOSS vs Gunnar Nelson
Submission (rear-naked choke) R1 2:54 · UFC 189: Mendes vs. McGregor · Jul 11, 2015
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Gunnar Nelson 1 6 of 8 75% 20 of 24 0 of 0 --- 1 0 1:26
Brandon Thatch 0 8 of 14 57% 8 of 14 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Gunnar Nelson 1 6 of 8 75% 20 of 24 0 of 0 --- 1 0 1:26
Brandon Thatch 0 8 of 14 57% 8 of 14 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Gunnar Nelson 6 of 8 75% 6 of 7 0 of 1 0 of 0 4 of 5 0 of 1 2 of 2
Brandon Thatch 8 of 14 57% 0 of 5 3 of 3 5 of 6 5 of 11 3 of 3 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Gunnar Nelson 6 of 8 75% 6 of 7 0 of 1 0 of 0 4 of 5 0 of 1 2 of 2
Brandon Thatch 8 of 14 57% 0 of 5 3 of 3 5 of 6 5 of 11 3 of 3 0 of 0
Submission (rear-naked choke) R4 3:58 · UFC Fight Night: Henderson vs. Thatch · Feb 14, 2015
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Benson Henderson 0 57 of 154 37% 85 of 187 3 of 5 60% 1 0 4:34
Brandon Thatch 0 44 of 143 30% 51 of 151 2 of 3 66% 0 0 0:17
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Benson Henderson 0 17 of 43 39% 17 of 43 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Brandon Thatch 0 11 of 31 35% 11 of 31 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Benson Henderson 0 15 of 46 32% 16 of 47 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Brandon Thatch 0 17 of 54 31% 22 of 60 2 of 2 100% 0 0 0:15
3 Benson Henderson 0 10 of 29 34% 31 of 53 1 of 2 50% 0 0 2:59
Brandon Thatch 0 8 of 24 33% 9 of 25 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:02
4 Benson Henderson 0 15 of 36 41% 21 of 44 2 of 3 66% 1 0 1:35
Brandon Thatch 0 8 of 34 23% 9 of 35 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Benson Henderson 57 of 154 37% 26 of 109 18 of 26 13 of 19 51 of 146 1 of 3 5 of 5
Brandon Thatch 44 of 143 30% 23 of 111 14 of 23 7 of 9 37 of 132 7 of 10 0 of 1
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Benson Henderson 17 of 43 39% 5 of 23 7 of 11 5 of 9 17 of 43 0 of 0 0 of 0
Brandon Thatch 11 of 31 35% 1 of 17 7 of 10 3 of 4 9 of 29 2 of 2 0 of 0
2 Benson Henderson 15 of 46 32% 7 of 33 5 of 8 3 of 5 14 of 45 1 of 1 0 of 0
Brandon Thatch 17 of 54 31% 12 of 46 3 of 6 2 of 2 17 of 52 0 of 1 0 of 1
3 Benson Henderson 10 of 29 34% 6 of 25 2 of 2 2 of 2 9 of 28 0 of 0 1 of 1
Brandon Thatch 8 of 24 33% 3 of 17 4 of 5 1 of 2 6 of 22 2 of 2 0 of 0
4 Benson Henderson 15 of 36 41% 8 of 28 4 of 5 3 of 3 11 of 30 0 of 2 4 of 4
Brandon Thatch 8 of 34 23% 7 of 31 0 of 2 1 of 1 5 of 29 3 of 5 0 of 0
WIN vs Paulo Thiago
TKO (punches) R1 2:10 · UFC Fight Night: Belfort vs. Henderson 2 · Nov 09, 2013
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Brandon Thatch 0 5 of 13 38% 6 of 16 1 of 2 50% 0 0 0:23
Paulo Thiago 1 12 of 28 42% 13 of 30 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:27
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Brandon Thatch 0 5 of 13 38% 6 of 16 1 of 2 50% 0 0 0:23
Paulo Thiago 1 12 of 28 42% 13 of 30 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:27
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Brandon Thatch 5 of 13 38% 4 of 12 1 of 1 0 of 0 1 of 8 4 of 5 0 of 0
Paulo Thiago 12 of 28 42% 7 of 20 5 of 6 0 of 2 7 of 18 3 of 8 2 of 2
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Brandon Thatch 5 of 13 38% 4 of 12 1 of 1 0 of 0 1 of 8 4 of 5 0 of 0
Paulo Thiago 12 of 28 42% 7 of 20 5 of 6 0 of 2 7 of 18 3 of 8 2 of 2
TKO (knees and punches) R1 1:23 · UFC Fight Night: Condit vs. Kampmann 2 · Aug 28, 2013
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Brandon Thatch 0 2 of 10 20% 2 of 10 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:02
Justin Edwards 2 17 of 26 65% 24 of 33 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:18
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Brandon Thatch 0 2 of 10 20% 2 of 10 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:02
Justin Edwards 2 17 of 26 65% 24 of 33 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:18
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Brandon Thatch 2 of 10 20% 1 of 9 1 of 1 0 of 0 1 of 7 1 of 3 0 of 0
Justin Edwards 17 of 26 65% 13 of 22 4 of 4 0 of 0 4 of 8 9 of 12 4 of 6
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Brandon Thatch 2 of 10 20% 1 of 9 1 of 1 0 of 0 1 of 7 1 of 3 0 of 0
Justin Edwards 17 of 26 65% 13 of 22 4 of 4 0 of 0 4 of 8 9 of 12 4 of 6