UFC Fight Night: Edgar vs. Swanson · Nov 22, 2014 · Featherweight · Completed
UFC Fight Night: Edgar vs. Swanson Next Fight
Age 44
Height 5' 6"
Reach 68.0"
Weight 135 lbs.
Stance Orthodox
Age 42
Height 5' 8"
Reach 70.0"
Weight 145 lbs.
Stance Orthodox
Career Averages - Frankie Edgar
3.77 SLpM
40.0% Str. Acc.
2.82 SApM
65.0% Str. Def.
2.29 TD Avg
31.0% TD Acc.
65.0% TD Def.
0.3 Sub. Avg
Career Averages - Cub Swanson
4.79 SLpM
51.0% Str. Acc.
4.0 SApM
59.0% Str. Def.
1.01 TD Avg
50.0% TD Acc.
63.0% TD Def.
0.4 Sub. Avg
Frankie Edgar - Fight History
LOSS vs Chris Gutierrez
KO/TKO R1 2:01 · UFC 281: Adesanya vs. Pereira · Nov 12, 2022
LOSS vs Marlon Vera
KO (front kick) R3 3:50 · UFC 268: Usman vs. Covington 2 · Nov 06, 2021
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Marlon Vera 0 94 of 155 60% 138 of 202 3 of 9 33% 0 0 4:25
Frankie Edgar 1 88 of 164 53% 110 of 187 0 of 0 --- 1 0 0:01
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Marlon Vera 0 35 of 45 77% 67 of 80 1 of 3 33% 0 0 3:06
Frankie Edgar 0 18 of 35 51% 36 of 54 0 of 0 --- 1 0 0:00
2 Marlon Vera 0 27 of 47 57% 39 of 59 1 of 4 25% 0 0 1:14
Frankie Edgar 0 32 of 65 49% 36 of 69 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Marlon Vera 0 32 of 63 50% 32 of 63 1 of 2 50% 0 0 0:05
Frankie Edgar 1 38 of 64 59% 38 of 64 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:01
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Marlon Vera 94 of 155 60% 59 of 113 25 of 32 10 of 10 69 of 125 0 of 1 25 of 29
Frankie Edgar 88 of 164 53% 60 of 130 22 of 26 6 of 8 75 of 140 1 of 1 12 of 23
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Marlon Vera 35 of 45 77% 22 of 31 9 of 10 4 of 4 18 of 25 0 of 0 17 of 20
Frankie Edgar 18 of 35 51% 14 of 30 2 of 2 2 of 3 11 of 22 0 of 0 7 of 13
2 Marlon Vera 27 of 47 57% 19 of 35 5 of 9 3 of 3 19 of 38 0 of 0 8 of 9
Frankie Edgar 32 of 65 49% 18 of 47 12 of 15 2 of 3 27 of 55 1 of 1 4 of 9
3 Marlon Vera 32 of 63 50% 18 of 47 11 of 13 3 of 3 32 of 62 0 of 1 0 of 0
Frankie Edgar 38 of 64 59% 28 of 53 8 of 9 2 of 2 37 of 63 0 of 0 1 of 1
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Frankie Edgar vs. Marlon Vera

Round 1
The hits keep right on coming, we hope you’re not worn out from what you’ve witnessed the last several fights. Former lightweight champion and multiple-time featherweight title challenger Edgar (24-9-1, 18-9-1 UFC) will answer the call at the age of 40 against furious Ecuadorian striker Vera (17-7-1, 11-6 UFC). Although Vera will clock in 12 years his opponent’s junior, he is not taking Edgar lightly, and referee Todd Anderson will have his work cut out for him in the next 15 minutes. Vera crawls out of his corner like Jon Jones, and because of this, there is no glove touch. Instead, when Vera stands up, they start trading. Edgar walks Vera down and slugs him in the face with a right hand, and Edgar shoots in for a takedown from afar. Edgar lands a left, and then another, and he walks through a leg kick so that he can keep punching. Vera sticks his tongue out as he stalks Edgar, and Edgar greets him with punches. Vera is struggling to find his range as Edgar gets in and out of range in time, popping Vera with strikes and escaping before counters find him. Edgar catches a leg kick, and he dives in for a takedown. When Edgar hits it, Vera defends with a guillotine choke on his back, but with Vera flat on his back, there is no choke set up. Vera bucks Edgar back to his full guard, and he closes it around the former champ. Edgar breaks the posture by pumping up and down, and he slashes with vicious elbows right on the nose. Vera lets rip several elbows from his back to make Edgar honest, and chants for “Let’s go, Frankie” rain down in the arena. Vera defends successfully with hacking elbows, and Edgar sits up every so often to land some ground-and-pound. Edgar fights off a possible armbar setup to land strikes, and when he stands up, Vera starts spamming upkicks. Edgar masterfully dodges most of the strikes before dropping back down into Vera’s guard, and he begins to batter Vera with more elbows. “Chito” has his guard closed for the most part, but Edgar lands strikes from above until the horn sounds. When Edgar stands up, Vera kicks him in the face illegally, and Edgar protests.

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

Round 2
Vera practically sprints out of his corner to engage, but he does not throw much in the first 20 seconds. The Ecuadorian gets off an inside leg kick, and he pops Edgar in the face to draw a little swelling around Edgar’s left eye. Vera is sharp with his hands as he gives chase, and he lands a body kick right before Edgar charges him. When the former champ rushes in, he throws a combination and gets clipped with a counter on the way out, but he is no worse for wear. Vera steps in with a knee, and Edgar’s eyes light up as he grabs his opponent’s leg and throws him down to the canvas. Edgar stacks Vera up in a high guard to keep him from defending or getting any upkicks off, all while slapping him in the face with hammerfists. Edgar comfortably sits down to land strikes, but Vera suddenly somersaults backwards to break the posture and stand back up. When back upright, Vera runs after Edgar to lay into him with strikes. “Chito” throws a kick, and Edgar grabs it but cannot punish him for this strike by taking him down. Vera pulls his leg back, and he takes an uppercut to the chops. Vera eats a few body shots so that he can knee Edgar in the face, and he is making Edgar retreat constantly as he peppers the midsection with front kicks. Vera scores a solid knee to make Edgar do a little flip on the ground to fall down and get back to his feet, and when he gets back up, Vera punches him in the face. Edgar lands a single leg kick, and Vera raises his arms in the air to taunt him, which allows Edgar to kick him two more times down low. Edgar sits down on a right hand, and he swipes with a hook to make Vera take a step back. Vera turns around and lands a back kick, and he blasts Edgar in the face with an elbow to put Edgar on rubber legs. Vera gets off a head kick, and he tries to finish the job, but he cannot because the round ends. Both bantamweights exchange words, and Vera flips him off as Anderson separates them.

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

Round 3
Vera attacks first to start of the final round, with long, rangy punches and front kicks. Vera scores a punch, and Edgar returns fire with a one-two. Edgar has a head kick clatter off the body, Vera is on him to land power shots. Vera stabs the midsection with a kick, and he turtles up when Edgar unloads on him. A leg kick from Vera makes Edgar back off, and “Chito” turns to plant a side kick on Edgar’s torso. Edgar has a takedown stuffed, and he walks into a right hand and an uppercut. Vera lets rip with a leg kick, and Edgar tags him with four punches to the body before retreating. Edgar gets marked up with a sharp uppercut, and Vera is taking it to him and making Edgar constantly backpedal. Vera’s body kick gets through, and Edgar returns fire with a short combination. The power differential is far in the favor of the Ecuadorian at this point, but Edgar is more content to land with volume while Vera is looking for the one-hitter quitter. One punch knocks Edgar’s mouthpiece out, and Anderson runs over to replace it as Vera gives a cheeky look and shrug to the camera. Edgar gets rocked by a left hand, and he catches a rampaging Vera by hitting a takedown and putting him on the ground. “Chito” powers his way back up to his feet in an instant, and he breaks the grip to line up a right hand. They both throw hands in the pocket, and Vera steps back to unleash a front kick reminiscent of Anderson Silva booting Vitor Belfort in the face. Edgar’s legs disintegrate beneath him as he falls face-first to the mat, and Vera gets off a hammerfists or two before Anderson can sprint in to halt the fight. Edgar protests the stoppage, but considering he was out on his feet when he stood up and nearly fell over walking to his corner, it appears to have been the right call. They settle their in-cage beef after the fight concludes, and show some respect to one another after a fun melee.

The Official Result
Marlon Vera def. Frankie Edgar R3 3:50 via KO (Front Kick)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Hesitant picked Nov 3, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Frankie Edgar

Angelo picks Frankie Edgar, but hesitantly. He believes Edgar's wrestling, footwork, and cardio are superior, and that if Edgar implements a wrestling game plan, he wins. However, he worries about Edgar's chin after recent knockouts. He thinks Vera is overrated and that Edgar can win a decision if he avoids getting caught. He also likes the over on the 1.5 round line.

Over 1.5 rounds
"if frankie is gonna go out there and wrestle frankie's the pick every day all day no problem"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Nov 1, 2021 (5 days before fight)
Marlon Vera

Big Brady picks Marlon Vera to win by third-round knockout. He notes Vera's durability and power, while Frankie Edgar is 40 years old with diminishing durability and has been knocked out three times recently. Brady thinks Edgar could win on paper with takedowns, but at this stage, Vera's youth and toughness will prevail. He expects Vera to drop the first round but build into the fight and finish Edgar late.

third round knockout
"i'm gonna take him to win by uh give me a give me a third round knockout for marlon vera"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Nov 3, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Frankie Edgar

Cody agrees Edgar is a live underdog, citing Vera's slow starts and poor takedown defense. He worries about Edgar's age (40) and recent KO losses but thinks Edgar's wrestling and pace could win close rounds. He notes the 'Frankie effect' in New York.

"as far as underdog selections go you could do worse than frankie edgar"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Nov 4, 2021 (2 days before fight)
Marlon Vera

Daniel Levi picks Marlon Vera to win, citing Vera's finishing ability, youth (28 vs 40), and improvement under Jason Parillo. He expects Vera to land more damage and potentially get a finish, but warns that Frankie Edgar may try to stall and clinch. Levi notes that Vera has a bad habit of starting slow but should pull away in the later rounds as Edgar's durability wanes. He also mentions that Vera has an insane chin and is still improving.

"i think this is cheetos time so give me cheeto to just land the more damage to to land the big moments where he hurts edgar possibly get that finish"
JA
Jacob Lines Expert Confident picked Nov 3, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Marlon Vera

Jacob picks Marlon Vera, citing his youth (28) and upward trajectory. He believes Vera's length and jiu-jitsu will be problematic for Edgar, and that Edgar's chin is a major liability. He thinks Vera can win by knockout or decision, and that Edgar's only chance is an ugly decision via wrestling and leg kicks. He is confident in Vera.

"cheeto vera is the play versus frankie edgar um he's just on the upswing of his career i think he's going to get some go on a little streak here and it starts with uh frankie edgar"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Nov 5, 2021 (1 day before fight)
Frankie Edgar

The host bets Edgar at +148, believing his pressure, takedowns, and volume will outwork Vera. He doubts Vera's one-punch KO power and thinks Edgar's chin will hold. He expects Edgar to win a decision.

"i do have a bet on frank kerger i went 1.5 units at plus 148"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Nov 3, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Frankie Edgar

Paul leans Edgar, believing his wrestling and pace can win close rounds. He notes Vera's slow starts and poor takedown defense (69%), which Edgar can exploit. He also mentions the 'Frankie effect' in New York, where judges favor the veteran. He bet fight goes to decision at -150.

fight goes to decision (-150)
"lean towards edgar maybe edgar is able to get that wrestling going and uh win two of three rounds"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Oct 31, 2021 (6 days before fight)
Marlon Vera

The Guru picks Marlon Vera by decision, predicting a brutal beatdown. He expects Edgar to win the first round with grappling, but Vera will take over with body shots, elbows, and range striking, eventually wearing Edgar down. The Guru notes Edgar's age and recent KO loss, and believes Vera's size and reach advantage will be key. He predicts a 29-27 unanimous decision.

29-27 unanimous decision
"I'm gonna go with marlon vera and i think i'm gonna go with him by decision here."
LOSS vs Cory Sandhagen
KO (flying knee) R1 0:28 · UFC Fight Night: Overeem vs. Volkov · Feb 06, 2021
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Cory Sandhagen 1 2 of 5 40% 2 of 5 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Frankie Edgar 0 2 of 3 66% 2 of 3 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Cory Sandhagen 1 2 of 5 40% 2 of 5 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Frankie Edgar 0 2 of 3 66% 2 of 3 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Cory Sandhagen 2 of 5 40% 1 of 3 0 of 0 1 of 2 2 of 5 0 of 0 0 of 0
Frankie Edgar 2 of 3 66% 1 of 2 0 of 0 1 of 1 2 of 3 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Cory Sandhagen 2 of 5 40% 1 of 3 0 of 0 1 of 2 2 of 5 0 of 0 0 of 0
Frankie Edgar 2 of 3 66% 1 of 2 0 of 0 1 of 1 2 of 3 0 of 0 0 of 0
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Feb 1, 2021 (5 days before fight)
Cory Sandhagen

Big Brady picks Cory Sandhagen, calling the odds 'insane' and noting Sandhagen's striking volume and durability. He acknowledges Frankie Edgar's path to victory via takedowns, but believes Sandhagen's ability to get back up and his chin will prevail. He predicts a knockout, citing Edgar's declining chin, and suggests looking at the knockout prop for better value.

method: KO, odds comment: minus 440 is too wide
"I'm gonna take Sanhagen by KO here... the minus 435 just seems a little bit too wide."
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Lean picked Feb 5, 2021 (1 day before fight)
Cory Sandhagen

Daniel Levi leans with Cory Sandhagen, acknowledging Frankie Edgar's takedown threat and Sandhagen's poor takedown defense (30%). He notes Edgar's experience against taller fighters and his durability at 135, but believes Sandhagen's striking output and range will be key. He says it's a dog-or-pass situation and doesn't blame anyone betting on Edgar.

"i'm gonna lean with corey as a pick but i i uh i don't blame anyone that wants to put a little bit on frankie"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Feb 1, 2021 (5 days before fight)
Cory Sandhagen

Sandhagen's unorthodox style, feints, and footwork will be difficult for Edgar to deal with. He uses his reach and height advantage well, and his diverse striking (kicks, spinning attacks) should keep Edgar at range. Edgar has struggled with bigger fighters who can maintain distance. Sandhagen's takedown defense is a concern, but Edgar's wrestling may not be as effective at 135. I expect Sandhagen to win a decision by landing the better shots and controlling the distance. The line is a bit wide, but Sandhagen should get the win.

Sandhagen by decision; line is too wide to bet straight, but could be used in parlays
"i'll go with corey i think he wins this fight uh again via decision um just being a little bit more diverse with the strikes"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jan 30, 2021 (7 days before fight)
Cory Sandhagen

The MMA Guru picks Cory Sandhagen, calling him a deserving favorite but criticizing the -440 odds as too high. He highlights Sandhagen's length, kicking game, and takedown defense. He predicts Sandhagen will use front kicks and question mark kicks to set up a head kick TKO in the second round, noting Edgar's boxing will be negated by range.

second round TKO by head kick
"i think he head-kicked tko's frankie edgar in the second round"
WIN vs Pedro Munhoz
Decision (split) (48–47, 46–49, 48–47) R5 5:00 · UFC on ESPN: Munhoz vs. Edgar · Aug 22, 2020
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Frankie Edgar 0 166 of 350 47% 166 of 350 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Pedro Munhoz 0 135 of 363 37% 135 of 363 2 of 8 25% 0 0 0:18
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Frankie Edgar 0 30 of 64 46% 30 of 64 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Pedro Munhoz 0 29 of 77 37% 29 of 77 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Frankie Edgar 0 21 of 57 36% 21 of 57 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Pedro Munhoz 0 25 of 61 40% 25 of 61 1 of 5 20% 0 0 0:12
3 Frankie Edgar 0 33 of 60 55% 33 of 60 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Pedro Munhoz 0 24 of 60 40% 24 of 60 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
4 Frankie Edgar 0 35 of 74 47% 35 of 74 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Pedro Munhoz 0 24 of 82 29% 24 of 82 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:06
5 Frankie Edgar 0 47 of 95 49% 47 of 95 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Pedro Munhoz 0 33 of 83 39% 33 of 83 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Frankie Edgar 166 of 350 47% 98 of 259 24 of 39 44 of 52 166 of 350 0 of 0 0 of 0
Pedro Munhoz 135 of 363 37% 105 of 309 23 of 46 7 of 8 134 of 361 1 of 2 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Frankie Edgar 30 of 64 46% 15 of 46 4 of 5 11 of 13 30 of 64 0 of 0 0 of 0
Pedro Munhoz 29 of 77 37% 23 of 63 4 of 12 2 of 2 29 of 77 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Frankie Edgar 21 of 57 36% 16 of 50 1 of 2 4 of 5 21 of 57 0 of 0 0 of 0
Pedro Munhoz 25 of 61 40% 19 of 50 6 of 10 0 of 1 24 of 59 1 of 2 0 of 0
3 Frankie Edgar 33 of 60 55% 18 of 42 4 of 6 11 of 12 33 of 60 0 of 0 0 of 0
Pedro Munhoz 24 of 60 40% 16 of 46 5 of 11 3 of 3 24 of 60 0 of 0 0 of 0
4 Frankie Edgar 35 of 74 47% 24 of 56 4 of 10 7 of 8 35 of 74 0 of 0 0 of 0
Pedro Munhoz 24 of 82 29% 20 of 75 3 of 6 1 of 1 24 of 82 0 of 0 0 of 0
5 Frankie Edgar 47 of 95 49% 25 of 65 11 of 16 11 of 14 47 of 95 0 of 0 0 of 0
Pedro Munhoz 33 of 83 39% 27 of 75 5 of 7 1 of 1 33 of 83 0 of 0 0 of 0
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Aug 20, 2020 (2 days before fight)
Pedro Munhoz

Big Brady picks Pedro Munhoz to win by third-round knockout. He believes Frankie Edgar is on his way out at 38 years old, questioning his durability and chin. Munhoz has excellent takedown defense (81%) and is dangerous on the ground with a guillotine, so Brady expects the fight to stay on the feet where Munhoz throws more volume and hits harder. He notes Munhoz has never been knocked out or submitted, while Edgar has been knocked out twice.

Munhoz inside the distance; Munhoz by decision at +300
"i'm going with munoz in this fight... i'm gonna pick munoz to win by i'm gonna say third round knockout"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Aug 22, 2020 (fight day)
Pedro Munhoz

Daniel Levi picks Pedro Munhoz to win by first-round stoppage. He argues that Frankie Edgar has not evolved his style since 2010, relying on pitter-patter boxing, while Munhoz has devastating calf kicks, one-punch power, and a world-class guillotine. Levi notes Edgar's durability has declined with age and that dropping to bantamweight removes his speed advantage. He believes Munhoz will pressure Edgar and finish him early, similar to the Korean Zombie fight.

first round stoppage
"i'm gonna go with pedro munoz by first round stoppage"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Aug 20, 2020 (2 days before fight)
Pedro Munhoz

Pedro Munhoz is the pick because Frankie Edgar is 38, cutting to 135 for the first time, and has shown dwindling durability after the Korean Zombie loss. Munhoz's calf kicks and power punching will be too much for Edgar, who struggles to close distance without eating shots. Munhoz's guillotine threat also neutralizes Edgar's wrestling. Expect a finish inside the distance, likely by TKO in the second or third round.

Munhoz inside the distance at -125 is a good bet; Munhoz by TKO/KO is likely.
"i truly believe we're going to see pedro munoz go out there and and starts frank yedger"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Aug 17, 2020 (5 days before fight)
Pedro Munhoz

The MMA Guru picks Pedro Munhoz, citing Frankie Edgar's history of KO losses and damage taken, and the disadvantage of moving down in weight. He praises Munhoz's iron chin, pressure, and body work, predicting a late first-round or early second-round TKO after Edgar shoots for a takedown.

late first round tko or early second round tko
"i'm gonna be picking pedro munoz to win against frankie edgar"
LOSS vs Chan Sung Jung
TKO (punches) R1 3:18 · UFC Fight Night: Edgar vs. The Korean Zombie · Dec 21, 2019
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Chan Sung Jung 0 9 of 14 64% 9 of 14 0 of 2 0% 0 0 2:12
Frankie Edgar 1 46 of 60 76% 79 of 97 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Chan Sung Jung 0 9 of 14 64% 9 of 14 0 of 2 0% 0 0 2:12
Frankie Edgar 1 46 of 60 76% 79 of 97 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Chan Sung Jung 9 of 14 64% 6 of 11 1 of 1 2 of 2 9 of 14 0 of 0 0 of 0
Frankie Edgar 46 of 60 76% 46 of 60 0 of 0 0 of 0 8 of 18 0 of 0 38 of 42
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Chan Sung Jung 9 of 14 64% 6 of 11 1 of 1 2 of 2 9 of 14 0 of 0 0 of 0
Frankie Edgar 46 of 60 76% 46 of 60 0 of 0 0 of 0 8 of 18 0 of 0 38 of 42
LOSS vs Max Holloway
Decision (unanimous) (50–45, 49–46, 48–47) R5 5:00 · UFC 240: Holloway vs. Edgar · Jul 27, 2019
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Max Holloway 0 129 of 328 39% 131 of 330 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Frankie Edgar 0 96 of 264 36% 96 of 264 1 of 15 6% 0 0 1:46
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Max Holloway 0 13 of 48 27% 13 of 48 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Frankie Edgar 0 18 of 53 33% 18 of 53 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
2 Max Holloway 0 27 of 69 39% 27 of 69 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Frankie Edgar 0 13 of 55 23% 13 of 55 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:05
3 Max Holloway 0 30 of 61 49% 30 of 61 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Frankie Edgar 0 17 of 48 35% 17 of 48 1 of 4 25% 0 0 0:59
4 Max Holloway 0 29 of 76 38% 31 of 78 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Frankie Edgar 0 22 of 47 46% 22 of 47 0 of 6 0% 0 0 0:28
5 Max Holloway 0 30 of 74 40% 30 of 74 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Frankie Edgar 0 26 of 61 42% 26 of 61 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:14
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Max Holloway 129 of 328 39% 109 of 295 20 of 33 0 of 0 120 of 319 8 of 8 1 of 1
Frankie Edgar 96 of 264 36% 57 of 195 21 of 48 18 of 21 93 of 252 2 of 10 1 of 2
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Max Holloway 13 of 48 27% 9 of 42 4 of 6 0 of 0 13 of 48 0 of 0 0 of 0
Frankie Edgar 18 of 53 33% 10 of 40 3 of 8 5 of 5 18 of 51 0 of 2 0 of 0
2 Max Holloway 27 of 69 39% 22 of 60 5 of 9 0 of 0 26 of 68 1 of 1 0 of 0
Frankie Edgar 13 of 55 23% 8 of 44 1 of 6 4 of 5 12 of 53 1 of 2 0 of 0
3 Max Holloway 30 of 61 49% 22 of 52 8 of 9 0 of 0 22 of 53 7 of 7 1 of 1
Frankie Edgar 17 of 48 35% 10 of 36 6 of 10 1 of 2 15 of 43 1 of 3 1 of 2
4 Max Holloway 29 of 76 38% 27 of 72 2 of 4 0 of 0 29 of 76 0 of 0 0 of 0
Frankie Edgar 22 of 47 46% 14 of 35 6 of 9 2 of 3 22 of 45 0 of 2 0 of 0
5 Max Holloway 30 of 74 40% 29 of 69 1 of 5 0 of 0 30 of 74 0 of 0 0 of 0
Frankie Edgar 26 of 61 42% 15 of 40 5 of 15 6 of 6 26 of 60 0 of 1 0 of 0
WIN vs Cub Swanson
Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 30–27) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Barboza vs. Lee · Apr 21, 2018
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Frankie Edgar 0 58 of 136 42% 60 of 139 0 of 8 0% 0 0 0:51
Cub Swanson 0 48 of 130 36% 50 of 132 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Frankie Edgar 0 16 of 43 37% 17 of 44 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:14
Cub Swanson 0 13 of 42 30% 14 of 43 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Frankie Edgar 0 21 of 53 39% 21 of 53 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:00
Cub Swanson 0 18 of 50 36% 18 of 50 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Frankie Edgar 0 21 of 40 52% 22 of 42 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:37
Cub Swanson 0 17 of 38 44% 18 of 39 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Frankie Edgar 58 of 136 42% 33 of 106 6 of 10 19 of 20 52 of 126 6 of 10 0 of 0
Cub Swanson 48 of 130 36% 32 of 110 11 of 15 5 of 5 42 of 122 6 of 8 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Frankie Edgar 16 of 43 37% 8 of 33 3 of 4 5 of 6 15 of 42 1 of 1 0 of 0
Cub Swanson 13 of 42 30% 8 of 35 4 of 6 1 of 1 12 of 40 1 of 2 0 of 0
2 Frankie Edgar 21 of 53 39% 12 of 43 1 of 2 8 of 8 18 of 49 3 of 4 0 of 0
Cub Swanson 18 of 50 36% 14 of 46 2 of 2 2 of 2 17 of 49 1 of 1 0 of 0
3 Frankie Edgar 21 of 40 52% 13 of 30 2 of 4 6 of 6 19 of 35 2 of 5 0 of 0
Cub Swanson 17 of 38 44% 10 of 29 5 of 7 2 of 2 13 of 33 4 of 5 0 of 0
LOSS vs Brian Ortega
KO (punch) R1 4:44 · UFC 222: Cyborg vs. Kunitskaya · Mar 03, 2018
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Brian Ortega 0 27 of 77 35% 27 of 77 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Frankie Edgar 1 25 of 76 32% 25 of 77 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Brian Ortega 0 27 of 77 35% 27 of 77 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Frankie Edgar 1 25 of 76 32% 25 of 77 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Brian Ortega 27 of 77 35% 12 of 59 10 of 13 5 of 5 27 of 76 0 of 1 0 of 0
Frankie Edgar 25 of 76 32% 21 of 71 3 of 4 1 of 1 17 of 66 6 of 8 2 of 2
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Brian Ortega 27 of 77 35% 12 of 59 10 of 13 5 of 5 27 of 76 0 of 1 0 of 0
Frankie Edgar 25 of 76 32% 21 of 71 3 of 4 1 of 1 17 of 66 6 of 8 2 of 2
Cub Swanson - Fight History
WIN vs Nate Landwehr
TKO R1 4:06 · UFC 327 · Apr 11, 2026
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Cub Swanson 2 37 of 49 75% 40 of 52 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:06
Nate Landwehr 0 15 of 30 50% 15 of 30 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Cub Swanson 2 37 of 49 75% 40 of 52 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:06
Nate Landwehr 0 15 of 30 50% 15 of 30 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Cub Swanson 37 of 49 75% 23 of 33 7 of 7 7 of 9 35 of 46 0 of 0 2 of 3
Nate Landwehr 15 of 30 50% 9 of 22 1 of 1 5 of 7 15 of 30 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Cub Swanson 37 of 49 75% 23 of 33 7 of 7 7 of 9 35 of 46 0 of 0 2 of 3
Nate Landwehr 15 of 30 50% 9 of 22 1 of 1 5 of 7 15 of 30 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Apr 5, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Cub Swanson

Angelo picks Cub Swanson in his retirement fight, citing his superior technique, fight IQ, and all-around skills. He notes Landwehr's reliance on his chin, which has given out, and believes Swanson is the better fighter everywhere. He expects the crowd support to help in a decision.

"I have to pick Cub Swanson here. Obviously, Nate is very gritty, very tough, but if your chin gives out, your chin gives out."
BI
Big Brady Expert Lean picked Apr 5, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Nate Landwehr

Big Brady expects a war, noting both fighters are durable and willing to brawl. He thinks Landwehr could use his grappling to submit Swanson, who has been submitted seven times. He worries about Landwehr's recent knockout losses and damage taken, but leans Landwehr by submission in the second or third round.

third round submission
"I'm going to take Nate Landwehr to win this fight by third round submission."
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Apr 8, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Cub Swanson

Cody also picks Swanson, citing Landwehr's loss of speed and durability. He thinks Swanson's speed and volume will be too much for Landwehr, who has been knocked out recently.

"I got to go against the grain, go against my boy... for me, it's going to be a Cup Swanson play."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Apr 9, 2026 (2 days before fight)
Nate Landwehr

Connor picks Landwehr, arguing that Swanson is too slow now and that Landwehr's pressure and durability will be too much. He notes that Swanson's last fight against Billy Quarantillo was tooth-and-nail, and that Swanson can't move his feet anymore. Connor believes Landwehr is still capable of winning a grimy pocket fight, and that Swanson's age (42) and layoff will catch up to him. He thinks Swanson will end up in Landwehr's kind of fight and get chin-checked.

Odds comment: Swanson opened +170, currently -115; Landwehr opened -200, currently -105.
"I think he'll beat Nate Landware? This would be a good one to discuss then. Why do you think he'll lose? Uh, Landware is a, not a lot better, but a little bit better of an athlete."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Apr 6, 2026 (5 days before fight)
Nate Landwehr

Daniel respects Swanson but thinks Landwehr's pace and calf kicks will be too much for the 42-year-old. He sees Landwehr winning by accumulation of damage or submission.

"I'm going to go Nate Landworth here. I really think that if Nate Lander doesn't get knocked out or badly compromised, his pace is going to be too much for Cub Swanson."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Apr 8, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Nate Landwehr

Daniel Vreeland picks Nate Landwehr, believing that Landwehr's pressure, leg kicks, and grappling will overwhelm the aging Cub Swanson. He notes that Swanson's cardio fades after the first round and that Landwehr is durable and gets better as the fight goes on. He also mentions that Swanson's retirement fight may be a paycheck fight.

"I think you get me to round two, you get me to round three, and Nate cooks him to the bone. So, I'm going with Nate Landwehr here, and I actually am considering a bet in this spot."
DI
Diary of a Pro Gambler Expert Lean picked Apr 10, 2026 (1 day before fight)
Nate Landwehr

The host leans towards Landwehr due to Swanson's long layoff (2 years) at age 42, which could lead to significant decline. He notes Landwehr's more recent fight showed better cardio, while Swanson slowed in his last fights. He also thinks Landwehr is more likely to be fully focused, while Swanson has outside business distractions. However, he acknowledges both fighters are old and inconsistent, so confidence is low.

Likes Landwehr +3.5 on the fight spread; thinks fight likely goes over but warns against betting over due to age.
"I would lean towards Nate Landwehr in this fight for a few reasons. The first being, Cub's coming in on a long layoff. And at 42 years old, you can significantly decline in a very short space of time."
LU
Lucrative James Expert Hesitant picked Apr 6, 2026 (5 days before fight)
Cub Swanson

James picks Cub Swanson, citing his experience in wars and technical striking advantage. He acknowledges Landwehr's pressure but believes Swanson's durability and power will prevail.

"I'm actually going to pick Cub Swanson in this one cuz I feel like he's been there, done it multiple times."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Apr 7, 2026 (4 days before fight)
Cub Swanson

Swanson's technical striking and counter-punching should be the difference. Landwehr is durable but tends to run into shots and has been knocked out recently. Swanson's footwork and experience allow him to land clean counters. Landwehr may try to grapple, but Swanson's defensive grappling is solid. Swanson should get the knockout in his retirement fight.

Swanson wins by knockout
"I think he gets his Swan song in emphatic fashion. And I think he gets a knockout victory over Nate the Train Lanware."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Apr 8, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Cub Swanson

Paul picks Swanson, noting his experience, speed, and training with young killers. He believes Landwehr's durability is declining and Swanson's crisp striking will prevail.

"Honestly, I am going with Cub Swanson. And I just feel like Cub... he's not a little cub anymore. He's Papa Bear Swanson now."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Apr 10, 2026 (1 day before fight)
Cub Swanson

The MMA Guru picks Cub Swanson over Nate Landwehr. He believes Swanson still has it, with recent wins over Billy Quarantillo and a split decision with Andre Fili. He notes Landwehr gets caught and KO'd, and Swanson can land a looping overhand. He predicts a TKO win in round one or two, with Swanson having a retirement send-off.

"I'm going to go with Cub Swanson over Nate Landwehr here."
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Apr 9, 2026 (2 days before fight)
Cub Swanson

Zane picks Swanson, arguing that Landwehr is too simplistic and one-dimensional. He notes that Swanson still has head movement and pocket comfort, and that Landwehr has no footwork, feints, or subtlety. Zane believes Swanson can outclass Landwehr, comparing it to Swanson fighting a downgraded version of Jeremy Stevens. He acknowledges Swanson's age but thinks his experience and savvy will prevail. He hopes Swanson wins and retires on a high note.

Odds comment: Swanson opened +170, currently -115; Landwehr opened -200, currently -105.
"I think cub can outclass him, honestly. Yeah, I want cub to outclass him."
KO (punch) R3 1:36 · UFC on ESPN: Covington vs. Buckley · Dec 14, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Cub Swanson 1 99 of 158 62% 114 of 173 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:10
Billy Quarantillo 0 97 of 237 40% 108 of 249 3 of 11 27% 0 0 2:07
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Cub Swanson 0 39 of 57 68% 40 of 58 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Billy Quarantillo 0 37 of 88 42% 37 of 88 1 of 3 33% 0 0 0:14
2 Cub Swanson 0 40 of 69 57% 54 of 83 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:09
Billy Quarantillo 0 38 of 105 36% 49 of 117 2 of 5 40% 0 0 1:38
3 Cub Swanson 1 20 of 32 62% 20 of 32 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:01
Billy Quarantillo 0 22 of 44 50% 22 of 44 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:15
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Cub Swanson 99 of 158 62% 74 of 127 13 of 18 12 of 13 95 of 154 4 of 4 0 of 0
Billy Quarantillo 97 of 237 40% 65 of 188 20 of 32 12 of 17 91 of 222 6 of 15 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Cub Swanson 39 of 57 68% 23 of 38 7 of 10 9 of 9 39 of 57 0 of 0 0 of 0
Billy Quarantillo 37 of 88 42% 22 of 66 6 of 10 9 of 12 37 of 87 0 of 1 0 of 0
2 Cub Swanson 40 of 69 57% 35 of 61 4 of 6 1 of 2 36 of 65 4 of 4 0 of 0
Billy Quarantillo 38 of 105 36% 31 of 91 6 of 12 1 of 2 32 of 91 6 of 14 0 of 0
3 Cub Swanson 20 of 32 62% 16 of 28 2 of 2 2 of 2 20 of 32 0 of 0 0 of 0
Billy Quarantillo 22 of 44 50% 12 of 31 8 of 10 2 of 3 22 of 44 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Lean picked Dec 8, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Billy Quarantillo

Angelo leans toward Quarantillo because he will be a touch faster with better movement, but he acknowledges Cub Swanson's toughness and all-around skills. He notes Quarantillo's aggression, BJJ, and volume striking, while Swanson is old and slow but still dangerous. He is considering betting the over 1.5 rounds and a plus 3.5 spread on Swanson, expecting a close decision.

Considering over 1.5 rounds and plus 3.5 spread on Cub Swanson.
"For pick purposes... I am going to lean Billy but there's two bets... I'm going to hammer the over cuz I do think this fight's going to go to decision."
BI
Big Brady Expert Lean picked Dec 12, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Billy Quarantillo

Big Brady picks Billy Quarantillo to win by third-round submission. He thinks Quarantillo's pressure, volume, and grappling can break Swanson, especially if he gets the fight to the mat. He notes Swanson has been submitted many times. However, he worries about Quarantillo's chin and durability, as Swanson still has power.

"I'll take Billy Q here I'll take Billy q and I think he wins this fight by third round submission"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Dec 11, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Billy Quarantillo

Cody picks Billy Quarantillo, citing his high volume striking (7.36 strikes per minute), pressure, and submission threat. He notes Cub Swanson's age (41), mileage, and recent losses, and believes Billy's pace and durability will overwhelm Cub. Cody also mentions the hometown advantage for Billy in Tampa.

"I got Billy it feels like I'm going to have to trust Billy a little more this week than I'd like to."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Dec 12, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Cub Swanson

Connor also picks Swanson, citing that Quarantillo's style is similar to Colby Covington's and ages out quickly. He notes that Swanson is still sharp and dangerous, with better boxing and power, and that Quarantillo's wrestling is not a reliable path to victory. Connor thinks Quarantillo may be 'shot' and that Swanson's experience will prevail.

Swanson opened at +137, now +136; Quarantillo opened at -153, now -152
"I'm going to pick him too. If nothing else, I'm going to do it for the old man out there."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Dec 12, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Cub Swanson

Daniel Vreeland picks Cub Swanson for the upset, despite being a fan of Billy Quarantillo. He argues that Quarantillo's comeback style relies on taking damage early, and at 36, that may be harder to sustain. Vreeland notes Swanson's speed, accuracy, and experience in wars, comparing this to Swanson's fight against Darren Elkins. He believes Swanson will land significant damage before Quarantillo can drag him into deep waters.

"I'm goingon go with Cub Swanson for the upset"
LU
Lucrative James Expert Hesitant picked Dec 11, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Cub Swanson

Lucrative James picks Cub Swanson as an underdog, acknowledging it's a close fight. He believes Swanson has more knockout upside early and can land heavy shots to stop Quarantillo's pressure. He notes Swanson's veteran savvy and power, but admits concerns about Swanson's age (41) and potential cardio decline. He sees value in Swanson at plus odds, though he is not fully confident.

"I'm going to go with the underdog in this one I'm going to go with Cub Swanson I think he's got more knockout upside early."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Dec 12, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Billy Quarantillo

Quarantillo's relentless and smothering grappling style will cause Cub Swanson trouble. He will crowd Swanson's space, jump on his back, and sink in a rear-naked choke, with the finish coming within 10 minutes.

wins by submission (rear-naked choke) in round 1 or 2
"cornello has the Relentless and smothering grappling style to cause Cub Swanson a lot of trouble obviously Swanson will be the better Striker here but look for this corano to crowd his space eventually jumping on the back of Cub …"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Hesitant picked Dec 11, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Billy Quarantillo

Paul picks Billy Quarantillo but with some hesitation. He notes that Billy's pace can be stifled by wrestling, but Cub Swanson is unlikely to use that approach. Paul sees it as a standup affair where Billy's volume and pressure should win out, though he acknowledges Cub's toughness and the possibility of a competitive first round.

"I have a little bit of concern with Billy I I mean I guess the one thing that keeps his Pace off is when his opponent's able to wrestle him and I really don't think Cub Swanson's going to be …"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Dec 11, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Cub Swanson

The MMA Guru picks Cub Swanson as an underdog, calling Billy Quarantillo 'absolute garbage'. He criticizes Quarantillo's lack of explosiveness and poor distance management, and notes that Swanson has better hands, power, and body work. He predicts Swanson will target the body and possibly get a body shot TKO in round two. He also notes that Quarantillo has been exposed in recent fights.

body shot TKO in round two
"I'm going to lean towards Cub Swanson I could even see a body shot TKO I know I predict a body shot TKO nearly every card but this is the one I'm predicting for this card body shot TKO Cubs …"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Dec 12, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Cub Swanson

Zane picks Swanson because Quarantillo's pressure style is aging poorly and he has been getting hurt and finished in recent fights. He notes that Swanson still has solid boxing fundamentals and power, and that Quarantillo's wrestling is not good enough to control Swanson, who is active off his back. Zane believes Quarantillo's style is falling apart.

Swanson opened at +137, now +136; Quarantillo opened at -153, now -152
"I'm going to take Cub. I just don't think Quarantillo is a good enough wrestler for me to pick him to out grapple Cub."
LOSS vs Andre Fili
Decision (split) (28–29, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC 303: Pereira vs. Prochazka 2 · Jun 29, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Andre Fili 0 62 of 111 55% 90 of 140 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:29
Cub Swanson 0 67 of 147 45% 70 of 151 2 of 11 18% 0 0 3:50
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Andre Fili 0 20 of 31 64% 20 of 31 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:07
Cub Swanson 0 18 of 42 42% 19 of 43 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
2 Andre Fili 0 12 of 29 41% 22 of 39 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:19
Cub Swanson 0 18 of 35 51% 18 of 35 1 of 4 25% 0 0 2:27
3 Andre Fili 0 30 of 51 58% 48 of 70 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:03
Cub Swanson 0 31 of 70 44% 33 of 73 1 of 6 16% 0 0 1:23
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Andre Fili 62 of 111 55% 43 of 86 7 of 11 12 of 14 53 of 101 9 of 10 0 of 0
Cub Swanson 67 of 147 45% 49 of 118 13 of 22 5 of 7 52 of 126 15 of 21 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Andre Fili 20 of 31 64% 9 of 18 3 of 4 8 of 9 18 of 29 2 of 2 0 of 0
Cub Swanson 18 of 42 42% 12 of 31 4 of 8 2 of 3 13 of 36 5 of 6 0 of 0
2 Andre Fili 12 of 29 41% 11 of 27 0 of 1 1 of 1 11 of 28 1 of 1 0 of 0
Cub Swanson 18 of 35 51% 14 of 29 4 of 6 0 of 0 15 of 29 3 of 6 0 of 0
3 Andre Fili 30 of 51 58% 23 of 41 4 of 6 3 of 4 24 of 44 6 of 7 0 of 0
Cub Swanson 31 of 70 44% 23 of 58 5 of 8 3 of 4 24 of 61 7 of 9 0 of 0
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Hesitant picked Jun 26, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Andre Fili

Cody picks Fili but is not confident due to his recent knockout losses. He notes that Fili is younger and faster, but his chin is questionable. Cody believes Fili's volume and wrestling could give him an edge, but acknowledges that Swanson is a fan favorite who often gets close decisions. He warns that Fili needs to finish Swanson to avoid a controversial decision loss.

"I think Fili because he's younger, a little faster... I still side with him here but the line is again..."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Jun 27, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Cub Swanson

Daniel is picking Swanson as a plus 210 underdog, citing Swanson's path to victory via knockout and his strong performance against Hakim Dawodu at similar odds. He notes that Fili is hot and cold and can be chinned. He envisions a retirement moment for Swanson where he knocks out Fili and puts his gloves down in the Octagon.

wins by KO
"I'm gonna go Cub Swanson here to have like a Robbie Lawler vs Nico Price type retirement moment where he goes out there knocks out Fely puts his gloves down."
LU
Lucrative James Expert picked Jun 26, 2024 (3 days before fight)

The host does not discuss this fight at all in the transcript. The entire podcast is focused on the Conor McGregor vs Michael Chandler fight, which is not on the provided fight card. Therefore, no pick is made for this fight.

MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lean picked Jun 25, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Andre Fili

The host picks Fili to win on the scorecards, but criticizes the -260 line as too high, saying Fili should be closer to -150 or -180. He expects a competitive striking battle that goes to decision, and recommends the over 2.5 rounds at -110. He notes Swanson is a live underdog at +210.

over 2.5 rounds at -110
"I will pick him to win this fight though... I think it's ultimately uh phy who ends wins this fight on the scorecards."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Jun 26, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Cub Swanson

Paul picks Swanson, citing his experience and durability. He notes that Swanson has a history of winning close decisions and that Fili has been knocked out recently. Paul believes Swanson's volume and toughness will be key, and that he can win a decision or even catch Fili with a knockout. He also mentions that Swanson is a fan favorite, which may help in a close fight.

"I think it's a pretty clear dogger pass, Cub Swanson for me."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jun 25, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Andre Fili

The Guru picks Andre Fili over Cub Swanson. He believes Fili is bigger, stronger, and more explosive at this stage. He notes Swanson's age (40) and size disadvantage. He likes Fili's low kicks and thinks he can finish Swanson by TKO.

TKO
"I'm going to go with Andre Philly... TKO"
WIN vs Hakeem Dawodu
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC on ESPN: Luque vs. dos Anjos · Aug 12, 2023
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Cub Swanson 0 77 of 156 49% 107 of 195 1 of 2 50% 0 0 1:25
Hakeem Dawodu 0 95 of 176 53% 129 of 224 0 of 0 --- 0 1 3:10
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Cub Swanson 0 23 of 42 54% 23 of 42 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Hakeem Dawodu 0 29 of 56 51% 29 of 56 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Cub Swanson 0 28 of 51 54% 52 of 79 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:04
Hakeem Dawodu 0 29 of 55 52% 48 of 86 0 of 0 --- 0 0 2:20
3 Cub Swanson 0 26 of 63 41% 32 of 74 1 of 2 50% 0 0 1:21
Hakeem Dawodu 0 37 of 65 56% 52 of 82 0 of 0 --- 0 1 0:50
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Cub Swanson 77 of 156 49% 41 of 112 27 of 31 9 of 13 59 of 135 18 of 21 0 of 0
Hakeem Dawodu 95 of 176 53% 41 of 104 29 of 37 25 of 35 79 of 158 16 of 18 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Cub Swanson 23 of 42 54% 11 of 25 8 of 10 4 of 7 23 of 42 0 of 0 0 of 0
Hakeem Dawodu 29 of 56 51% 9 of 28 8 of 9 12 of 19 29 of 56 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Cub Swanson 28 of 51 54% 19 of 42 8 of 8 1 of 1 18 of 39 10 of 12 0 of 0
Hakeem Dawodu 29 of 55 52% 13 of 33 10 of 13 6 of 9 20 of 44 9 of 11 0 of 0
3 Cub Swanson 26 of 63 41% 11 of 45 11 of 13 4 of 5 18 of 54 8 of 9 0 of 0
Hakeem Dawodu 37 of 65 56% 19 of 43 11 of 15 7 of 7 30 of 58 7 of 7 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Aug 6, 2023 (6 days before fight)
Hakeem Dawodu

Angelo picks Dawodu based on age and speed, noting Swanson looked old in his last fight. He acknowledges Swanson could win via takedowns and decision, but leans Dawodu.

"dawood is going to be the pick here but that is based purely on age and speed"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Aug 7, 2023 (5 days before fight)
Hakeem Dawodu

Big Brady picks Hakeem Dawodu to knock out Cub Swanson in the second round. He notes Swanson's age (39) and recent durability issues, especially in the Jonathan Martinez fight where he was hurt to the head, body, and legs. He believes Dawodu's mixing of strikes will wear down Swanson and lead to a finish. He expects this to be Swanson's retirement fight.

second round knockout
"I'm gonna take Akeem to knock out Swanson here um probably second round I think it's going to be attritional"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert picked Aug 9, 2023 (3 days before fight)

Cody is torn on this fight. He notes Cub Swanson is nearing 40 and coming off a brutal loss to Jonathan Martinez, but also has a history of pulling off upsets. He criticizes Hakeem Dawodu's low output and lack of finishing ability, but acknowledges Cub's age and damage. He ultimately decides to pass on betting, saying he has other underdogs he prefers.

"I don't know if I'm gonna get there I'm taking some other underdogs on the car I'm not supposed to send it here"
LU
Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Aug 9, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Hakeem Dawodu

James picks Dawodu, believing Swanson is past his prime. He thinks Dawodu is the better striker now with better durability, though he notes Dawodu's chin is questionable. James sees little path for Swanson to win, as he doesn't think Swanson can grapple or out-strike Dawodu. He mentions Swanson could land a knockout due to his unorthodox style, but overall favors Dawodu clearly.

"I think Swanson's past it... I think Dawodu is the clear side in this one."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Aug 10, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Hakeem Dawodu

Dawodu is a technical striker who uses combination striking and kicks. Swanson is 40 and on a 3-6 run over his last nine, with wins over sketchy competition. Dawodu should land the more impactful strikes and get the nod from judges. However, Swanson's unorthodox style could make it closer than the odds suggest.

"I still feel like dawado should be able to do what he needs to do to get his hand raised I just want none of that chalky price"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Hesitant picked Aug 9, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Cub Swanson

Paul picks Cub Swanson but with low confidence. He thinks the line is accurate and would prefer Dawodu at a better price. He sees Cub having a puncher's chance and notes that if Dawodu fights at his usual low volume, Cub could outwork him and eke out a decision. However, he admits he's not confident and has other underdogs he'd rather bet.

"I suppose I will select Cub for the purposes of this show but I have other underdogs that I'm wasting money on this week"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Aug 8, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Hakeem Dawodu

The MMA Guru picks Hakeem Dawodu over Cub Swanson, citing Swanson's accumulated damage and small size for featherweight. He notes Dawodu's strength and clinch work, predicting he will hurt Swanson to the body with knees and get a finish in the third round. He references Swanson's past body-shot losses to Tatsuya Kawajiri and Max Holloway.

Finish in the third round by knees to the body
"I'm gonna go Hakeem dawa do over Cub Swanson"
TKO (leg kick) R2 4:19 · UFC Fight Night: Grasso vs. Araujo · Oct 15, 2022
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Jonathan Martinez 0 51 of 79 64% 60 of 88 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:20
Cub Swanson 2 62 of 102 60% 66 of 106 0 of 1 0% 0 1 3:30
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Jonathan Martinez 0 31 of 50 62% 38 of 57 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:20
Cub Swanson 1 33 of 59 55% 35 of 61 0 of 1 0% 0 1 1:16
2 Jonathan Martinez 0 20 of 29 68% 22 of 31 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Cub Swanson 1 29 of 43 67% 31 of 45 0 of 0 --- 0 0 2:14
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Jonathan Martinez 51 of 79 64% 10 of 35 9 of 10 32 of 34 48 of 73 3 of 5 0 of 1
Cub Swanson 62 of 102 60% 40 of 77 15 of 18 7 of 7 37 of 64 12 of 14 13 of 24
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Jonathan Martinez 31 of 50 62% 5 of 23 5 of 6 21 of 21 29 of 47 2 of 2 0 of 1
Cub Swanson 33 of 59 55% 21 of 45 10 of 12 2 of 2 21 of 39 5 of 6 7 of 14
2 Jonathan Martinez 20 of 29 68% 5 of 12 4 of 4 11 of 13 19 of 26 1 of 3 0 of 0
Cub Swanson 29 of 43 67% 19 of 32 5 of 6 5 of 5 16 of 25 7 of 8 6 of 10
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Lean picked Oct 9, 2022 (6 days before fight)
Cub Swanson

Angelo leans Cub Swanson, citing his experience, fight IQ, and still-solid chin. He notes that Jonathan Martinez has holes in his game, particularly handling pressure, and that Cub can exploit that in a technical kickboxing match. However, he is not highly confident and calls it a tough pick, acknowledging Martinez's power and recent wins.

"I think I'm gonna have to lean Cub because of his experience his level of competition this is not the most confident pick in the world"
BI
Big Brady Expert Lean picked Oct 9, 2022 (6 days before fight)
Cub Swanson

Big Brady picks Cub Swanson for the upset by first-round knockout. He notes that Swanson has looked phenomenal lately, has power and volume, while Martinez has a questionable chin (knocked down multiple times). He thinks Swanson's pressure and hard shots will be too much, but says he'll check the weigh-ins to see if Swanson looks drained from the weight cut. He calls it a super close fight.

Swanson wins by knockout, first round
"I'm actually gonna go with a cub Swanson for the upset here"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Oct 12, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Jonathan Martinez

Cody leans Martinez for the pick but is more confident in the under 2.5 rounds at +130. He notes Cub Swanson still fights with hands down and chin up, and while he has power, Martinez is faster and more technical. He expects violence in a small cage and thinks the fight ends early.

under 2.5 rounds +130
"I'll lean to him but I think round one could be very very dicey... I'm betting on violence here small cage under two and a half rounds plus 130 sign me up."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Hesitant picked Oct 13, 2022 (2 days before fight)
Jonathan Martinez

Connor picks Martinez, citing the age and weight cut concerns for Swanson. He notes that Martinez's range kicking game could cause problems for Swanson, and that Swanson's tendency to struggle against range strikers is a factor. He admits it's a coin flip but goes with the younger, established bantamweight.

"I'll go with Jonathan Martinez, just to be on the opposite side of you on this one. I just don't trust the Bantam weight move for cub."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Hesitant picked Oct 11, 2022 (4 days before fight)
Cub Swanson

Swanson is a live underdog at +165 due to his unorthodox striking and power, which could expose Martinez's chin. Martinez is a good striker with kicks and combinations, but he has shown he can be hurt. Swanson's experience and ability to crack opponents make this competitive. However, the weight cut to 135 pounds is a concern; the host wants to see how Swanson looks at weigh-ins before committing. Prediction is Swanson by knockout.

Swanson by knockout
"I'm gonna go Cub Swanson Swanson by knockout"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Oct 12, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Cub Swanson

Paul is tempted by Cub Swanson as a live underdog, especially since the fight is at bantamweight, a new weight class for Swanson. He questions Martinez's chin and weight cut issues, noting Martinez has been dropped before and struggled at 135. He thinks Swanson's power and pace could break Martinez if it becomes a scrap.

Cub Swanson inside the distance
"I think I'm leaning slight dog here at Cub Swanson right now you know what I didn't know that this was that bantamweight I that makes me like it even more."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Oct 11, 2022 (4 days before fight)
Jonathan Martinez

The MMA Guru picks Jonathan Martinez over his favorite fighter Cub Swanson, citing momentum and Martinez's age (28) as key factors. He notes that Swanson is moving down to bantamweight, which often leads to poor performances initially. He praises Martinez's leg kicks and slick striking, and predicts a body finish due to Swanson's weaker torso at the new weight.

prediction: finish to the body
"I'm gonna go with Jonathan Martinez over Cub Swanson and it hurts me to say it because Cub Swanson's my favorite fighter"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Oct 13, 2022 (2 days before fight)
Cub Swanson

Zane picks Swanson, reasoning that if he would pick Swanson at featherweight, he has to still pick him at bantamweight despite the weight cut concerns. He believes Swanson's aggression and ability to punish Martinez's poor defense on the back foot will be key. He acknowledges the risk but trusts Swanson's veteran savvy.

"If I would pick it to happen at one 45 and I know so little about how cub handles a weight cut... then I have to still pick the guy I would pick at featherweight."
WIN vs Darren Elkins
TKO (spinning wheel kick and punches) R1 2:12 · UFC Fight Night: Lewis vs. Daukaus · Dec 18, 2021
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Cub Swanson 1 18 of 30 60% 18 of 30 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:09
Darren Elkins 0 2 of 19 10% 5 of 22 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Cub Swanson 1 18 of 30 60% 18 of 30 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:09
Darren Elkins 0 2 of 19 10% 5 of 22 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Cub Swanson 18 of 30 60% 16 of 28 2 of 2 0 of 0 16 of 26 0 of 0 2 of 4
Darren Elkins 2 of 19 10% 2 of 18 0 of 1 0 of 0 2 of 19 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Cub Swanson 18 of 30 60% 16 of 28 2 of 2 0 of 0 16 of 26 0 of 0 2 of 4
Darren Elkins 2 of 19 10% 2 of 18 0 of 1 0 of 0 2 of 19 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Dec 15, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Darren Elkins

Angelo picks Darren Elkins, citing the constant threat of takedowns and grinding pressure. He believes Elkins can make the fight ugly and frustrate Swanson, who is the better all-around fighter but needs to keep it standing. Angelo notes that Elkins has power in his hands but his clear path is grappling. He placed a moneyline bet on Elkins because the odds were too good at +170, thinking it should be closer to a pick'em.

moneyline bet at +170
"i do have a money line bet on darren elkins and that's mostly because the odds were so good i mean plus 170 is crazy"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Dec 15, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Cub Swanson

Big Brady picks Cub Swanson by decision, citing his striking advantage (higher volume, accuracy, defense) and improved takedown defense in recent fights. He notes Elkins' low striking accuracy and believes Swanson can keep the fight standing. He acknowledges Elkins' grappling but thinks Swanson's takedown defense has improved enough to avoid trouble.

decision
"give me swanson to win give me swanson to win by decision"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Hesitant picked Dec 16, 2021 (2 days before fight)
Cub Swanson

Cody picks Swanson but doesn't like the -200 price. He thinks Swanson's superior footwork and striking technique will allow him to box up Elkins on the feet. He notes that Elkins needs takedowns to win, and Swanson's takedown defense (60% career) might be enough. Cody suggests taking Swanson by decision at +150 instead of the moneyline, as he believes Swanson is unlikely to finish Elkins.

Swanson by decision +150
"I will take cup swanson he's the official pick I don't like that price tag"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Hesitant picked Dec 16, 2021 (2 days before fight)
Cub Swanson

Daniel Levi picks Cub Swanson but admits he is sketched out by Elkins's comeback ability. He believes Swanson will dominate the striking early, using his speed, kicks, and explosiveness. However, Levi worries that if Elkins gets top position or takes Swanson's back, he could submit him. He references Jeremy Stephens's blueprint of keeping the fight standing and busting Elkins up, which Swanson can follow. Levi expects Swanson to win a decision, possibly 30-27, but acknowledges the risk of Elkins pulling off a submission.

Swanson by decision; fight doesn't go to decision (if Elkins submits)
"I am going to pick Cub to win but I'd be lying if I said I wasn't sketched out if Elkins got on top of him."
JA
Jacob Lines Expert Confident picked Dec 15, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Cub Swanson

Jacob picks Cub Swanson, his favorite fighter, and is very confident. He argues that Swanson is the better all-around fighter and equally tough. Jacob believes Swanson will dominate the fight, noting that Swanson looked great in his last win and that Elkins' wins come from out-toughing opponents, but nobody out-toughs Swanson. He thinks the odds are fair and that Swanson will win.

"cub swanson is going to dominate this fight"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Dec 17, 2021 (1 day before fight)
Cub Swanson

The host picks Swanson by KO, citing the striking disparity and Elkins' declining reactions. He believes Swanson will tee off on Elkins and finish him. He likes the KO prop at +250 and also parlayed Swanson moneyline with Barcelos.

Swanson by KO (+250); parlay Swanson + Barcelos (-102)
"I like cub swanson by ko i think that's very live in this situation"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Dec 16, 2021 (2 days before fight)
Darren Elkins

Paul is leaning towards Elkins as a dog, citing Elkins's incredible durability and never-quit attitude. He thinks Swanson may start fast but could fade, and Elkins's pressure and wrestling could take over. Paul plans to bet Elkins live if Swanson slows down, expecting a better number than +170. He calls it a 'dogger pass' situation pre-fight.

"I'm going to actually have to watch the fight and I'm going to try to bet it live because I know that swanston doesn't have cardio issues but darren is just he's a guy that has made me a bunch …"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Dec 13, 2021 (5 days before fight)
Cub Swanson

The MMA Guru picks Cub Swanson to win by 29-28 decision. He notes Swanson has improved his grappling defense significantly, as shown in the second Edgar fight where he wasn't taken down. He thinks Swanson's stand-up advantage will be key and he won't gas out like other Elkins opponents. He expects a scrappy war but Swanson's veteran savvy will carry him.

"i'm going with cub swanson here over darren elkins"
LOSS vs Giga Chikadze
TKO (body kick and punches) R1 1:03 · UFC on ESPN: Reyes vs. Prochazka · May 01, 2021
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Giga Chikadze 1 12 of 18 66% 12 of 18 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:05
Cub Swanson 0 4 of 6 66% 4 of 6 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Giga Chikadze 1 12 of 18 66% 12 of 18 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:05
Cub Swanson 0 4 of 6 66% 4 of 6 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Giga Chikadze 12 of 18 66% 9 of 14 2 of 3 1 of 1 7 of 11 0 of 0 5 of 7
Cub Swanson 4 of 6 66% 1 of 1 0 of 0 3 of 5 4 of 6 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Giga Chikadze 12 of 18 66% 9 of 14 2 of 3 1 of 1 7 of 11 0 of 0 5 of 7
Cub Swanson 4 of 6 66% 1 of 1 0 of 0 3 of 5 4 of 6 0 of 0 0 of 0
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Apr 27, 2021 (4 days before fight)
Giga Chikadze

Big Brady picks Giga Chikadze to win a close decision, but he is hesitant and hates the line. He acknowledges Chikadze's improvements, especially in takedown defense and striking output, as seen in the Morales fight. However, he notes that Swanson is durable and on a roll, and that Chikadze has been taken down in the past. Brady thinks the line should be closer and that Swanson could be live if he wrestles more, but he ultimately goes with Chikadze's flashier strikes.

"i'm going to take ciacatse to win by a close decision"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Apr 27, 2021 (4 days before fight)
Cub Swanson

Cody sees Cub Swanson as a live underdog with many variables in his favor: savvy veteran experience, ground game advantage, and a history of performing well as an underdog. He notes that Swanson has a BJJ black belt and wrestling advantage, and that Giga has not faced a grappler who actually uses their ground game. However, he is concerned that Giga is tall for the division and a tricky striker, and that Swanson needs to use his wrestling to win. He labels this a 'dogger pass' situation and mentions DraftKings still has +160 available.

dogger pass (betting recommendation)
"for our last show in the studio i'll label this one a dogger pass dogger pass situation"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Apr 29, 2021 (2 days before fight)
Giga Chikadze

Daniel Levi picks Giga Chikadze to win, emphasizing that Chikadze is a superior striker with better range and footwork. He believes Cub Swanson's style of swinging big hooks plays into Chikadze's straight shots down the middle. Levi also notes that Swanson's recent win over Pineda is overrated and that Chikadze's cardio held up in his last fight.

"i'm gonna go with giga to land the harder shots the more impactful shots and i think he's gonna announce himself as a contender at 145 pounds"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Apr 30, 2021 (1 day before fight)
Giga Chikadze

The host picks Giga Chikadze by decision, citing his striking advantage and reach. He expects Giga to fight safe and outpoint Swanson, who may look for takedowns. He notes that Swanson is a veteran but believes Giga's kicking game will be too much.

Giga Chikadze by decision at +170
"I like giga here it's crazy that the line is continuing to move towards the cub swanson side"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert picked Apr 27, 2021 (4 days before fight)

Paul does not have a strong lean on this fight. He notes that Giga has been given favorable matchups and that Swanson has the ground game advantage, but he is not confident enough to make a pick. He mentions that the action is coming in on Swanson and that he can understand why, but he doesn't commit to a side.

"yeah not a great lean either"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Apr 25, 2021 (6 days before fight)
Giga Chikadze

The MMA Guru picks Giga Chikadze over Cub Swanson, citing Chikadze's size advantage, reach, and improving MMA skills. He notes that Swanson is a natural bantamweight and took damage in his last fight against Daniel Pineda. He predicts Chikadze will chop at Swanson's legs and jab his way to a 30-27 unanimous decision.

"i'm gonna pick giga chickety to shop at those legs land good shots and just have cubs cub swanson limping around for the entire fight"
WIN vs Daniel Pineda
KO (punches) R2 1:52 · UFC 256: Figueiredo vs. Moreno · Dec 12, 2020
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Cub Swanson 2 46 of 66 69% 51 of 71 1 of 1 100% 0 0 1:34
Daniel Pineda 0 21 of 45 46% 40 of 65 1 of 2 50% 1 0 0:35
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Cub Swanson 1 31 of 47 65% 34 of 50 1 of 1 100% 0 0 1:31
Daniel Pineda 0 16 of 30 53% 35 of 50 1 of 1 100% 1 0 0:08
2 Cub Swanson 1 15 of 19 78% 17 of 21 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:03
Daniel Pineda 0 5 of 15 33% 5 of 15 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:27
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Cub Swanson 46 of 66 69% 35 of 51 7 of 11 4 of 4 37 of 54 3 of 3 6 of 9
Daniel Pineda 21 of 45 46% 9 of 28 3 of 4 9 of 13 19 of 43 2 of 2 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Cub Swanson 31 of 47 65% 23 of 36 4 of 7 4 of 4 23 of 36 3 of 3 5 of 8
Daniel Pineda 16 of 30 53% 6 of 17 2 of 3 8 of 10 14 of 28 2 of 2 0 of 0
2 Cub Swanson 15 of 19 78% 12 of 15 3 of 4 0 of 0 14 of 18 0 of 0 1 of 1
Daniel Pineda 5 of 15 33% 3 of 11 1 of 1 1 of 3 5 of 15 0 of 0 0 of 0
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Dec 9, 2020 (3 days before fight)
Daniel Pineda

Big Brady picks Daniel Pineda to win by first-round submission. He highlights Pineda's 100% finish rate (27 wins all finishes) and Swanson's history of being submitted six times. He likes Pineda's recent form and believes he is in his prime, while Swanson is past his prime and coming off injury. He recommends betting Pineda inside the distance at +140.

Pineda inside the distance +140
"i'm going to take pineda to win by first round submission"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Dec 11, 2020 (1 day before fight)
Daniel Pineda

Daniel is impressed with Pineda's resurgence, noting his 29 finishes and recent dominant performances. He questions Cub Swanson's level of competition and thinks Swanson is on his way out. He predicts Pineda will catch Cub with a submission, possibly his 20th submission win.

submission win
"imma go with pineda to get his 20th submission win i think he catches cub somewhere along the way"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Dec 7, 2020 (5 days before fight)
Daniel Pineda

Pineda's wrestling and top pressure will be a nightmare for Swanson, who has struggled with grapplers. Pineda should be able to take Swanson down repeatedly and finish him via ground and pound or submission. Swanson's recent losses have come via submission, and Pineda's style matches up well. The under 2.5 rounds is a good prop.

Under 2.5 rounds; Pineda inside the distance, likely second round
"i'm taking pineda via finnish probably second round... i truly think that he'll be able to get swanson down time and time again and get that damage in"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Dec 6, 2020 (6 days before fight)
Cub Swanson

The MMA Guru picks Cub Swanson, despite the long layoff due to injury. He believes Swanson's experience against good jiu-jitsu guys and his stand-up will be the difference. He expects Swanson to keep the fight standing and win a unanimous decision. He dismisses Daniel Pineda's wins as unimpressive and notes Pineda's past PED issues.

"i'm gonna go with cub swanson getting the job done against daniel pineda i like daniel pineda but i think people are just looking at his herbert burns win"