UFC on ESPN: Lemos vs. Jandiroba · Jul 20, 2024 · Heavyweight · Completed
Prev Fight UFC on ESPN: Lemos vs. Jandiroba
Age 31
Height 6' 1"
Reach 74.0"
Weight 264 lbs.
Stance Southpaw
Age 37
Height 6' 2"
Reach 79.0"
Weight 239 lbs.
Stance Orthodox
Career Averages - Thomas Petersen
3.1 SLpM
59.0% Str. Acc.
2.61 SApM
54.0% Str. Def.
3.01 TD Avg
43.0% TD Acc.
87.0% TD Def.
0.4 Sub. Avg
Career Averages - Mohammed Usman
3.85 SLpM
39.0% Str. Acc.
4.27 SApM
51.0% Str. Def.
0.56 TD Avg
14.0% TD Acc.
66.0% TD Def.
0.0 Sub. Avg
Thomas Petersen - Fight History
WIN vs Guilherme Pat
Decision R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Moicano vs. Duncan · Apr 04, 2026
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Guilherme Pat 0 17 of 31 54% 25 of 42 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Thomas Petersen 1 28 of 41 68% 164 of 199 0 of 5 0% 0 0 8:36
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Guilherme Pat 0 8 of 11 72% 8 of 11 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Thomas Petersen 0 4 of 9 44% 28 of 35 0 of 3 0% 0 0 2:03
2 Guilherme Pat 0 7 of 17 41% 12 of 22 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Thomas Petersen 0 8 of 12 66% 27 of 33 0 of 1 0% 0 0 1:55
3 Guilherme Pat 0 2 of 3 66% 5 of 9 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Thomas Petersen 1 16 of 20 80% 109 of 131 0 of 1 0% 0 0 4:38
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Guilherme Pat 17 of 31 54% 9 of 22 3 of 3 5 of 6 16 of 29 1 of 2 0 of 0
Thomas Petersen 28 of 41 68% 22 of 33 2 of 4 4 of 4 10 of 20 4 of 5 14 of 16
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Guilherme Pat 8 of 11 72% 3 of 6 1 of 1 4 of 4 8 of 10 0 of 1 0 of 0
Thomas Petersen 4 of 9 44% 2 of 6 0 of 1 2 of 2 3 of 8 1 of 1 0 of 0
2 Guilherme Pat 7 of 17 41% 4 of 13 2 of 2 1 of 2 6 of 16 1 of 1 0 of 0
Thomas Petersen 8 of 12 66% 5 of 8 1 of 2 2 of 2 7 of 11 1 of 1 0 of 0
3 Guilherme Pat 2 of 3 66% 2 of 3 0 of 0 0 of 0 2 of 3 0 of 0 0 of 0
Thomas Petersen 16 of 20 80% 15 of 19 1 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 1 2 of 3 14 of 16
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Mar 29, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Thomas Petersen

Angelo picks Thomas Petersen despite acknowledging his poor striking, because Petersen is a strong wrestler with good top control. He notes that Guilherme Pat has poor takedown defense and can be held against the cage. Angelo believes Petersen can absorb Pat's strikes, close the distance, and grind out a win on the ground. He cautions that picks are not bets but thinks Petersen can get the takedowns.

"I'm going to pick Thomas to win this fight. Picks are not bets."
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Mar 30, 2026 (5 days before fight)
Thomas Petersen

Big Brady picks Thomas Petersen but with low confidence. He notes Petersen has good wrestling but is inconsistent. He thinks Petersen needs to wrestle hard for 15 minutes to win, and that Pat is a solid striker but can be controlled. He expects a greasy decision win for Petersen.

Petersen by decision
"I'm going to pick him here to win this fight. I'm going to take him to, you know, cage push here, get some control time against the the cage, mix in the takedowns, and win a very greasy greasy greasy …"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Apr 2, 2026 (2 days before fight)
Thomas Petersen

Cody picks Petersen, expecting him to use his wrestling to control Pat on the ground. He notes Petersen's wrestling background and Pat's inexperience, and believes Petersen will secure a decision or late finish.

"I'm expecting him to do the right thing. And uh and just keep this guy chest to chest for as long as you can. Kill out the clock, pick up the dub. So it's going to be a Thomas Peterson …"
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Lean picked Apr 3, 2026 (1 day before fight)
Thomas Petersen

Connor leans toward Peterson, citing his reproducible approach and ability to beat better athletes. He notes Peterson is a reasonable wrestler and better than Fry, which could neutralize Pat. However, he admits Pat could come in much better and that Peterson has been knocked out before, making it a low-confidence pick.

Odds should be dead even; Peterson opened -130, now -113.
"Peterson has a reproducible approach to fights that has allowed him to beat better athletes already."
LU
Lucrative James Expert Hesitant picked Mar 30, 2026 (5 days before fight)
Thomas Petersen

James hesitantly picks Thomas Petersen, predicting he will get outskilled early but come back to win via finish in round three or a close decision. He notes Pat's superior athleticism and footwork but criticizes his lack of finishing instinct and tendency to gas. He believes Petersen's wrestling, grit, and size advantage will wear on Pat as the fight progresses. He admits he needs to watch more tape and is not fully confident.

Round 3 finish or decision prediction
"I'm going to say Peterson gets styled on for 7 and 1/2 minutes and then he comes back and gets a finish in round three."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Hesitant picked Mar 31, 2026 (4 days before fight)
Thomas Petersen

The host picks Petersen, citing his wrestling, cardio, and top control as kryptonite to Pat's power. He notes Pat's lackluster UFC debut and reliance on power, while Petersen has better grappling and gas tank. However, he has mediocre confidence due to the possibility of Pat landing a big shot early. He predicts Petersen by decision.

Petersen by decision
"I like Peterson here. I'll I'll I'll muzzle my confidence a bit... I think he wins this fight."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Apr 2, 2026 (2 days before fight)
Thomas Petersen

Paul leans towards Petersen, noting his wrestling advantage and Pat's struggles against cage pressure. He expects Petersen to grind out a win, though he's not fully confident.

"Thomas Peterson, lock of the century. Um, kidding, but he should be able to get to the hips."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Hesitant picked Apr 4, 2026 (fight day)
Thomas Petersen

The MMA Guru picks Thomas Petersen, citing his crafty wrestling and size advantage. He notes that Guilherme Pat was held against the cage by a lesser opponent and that Petersen has good boxing and grappling. He seems somewhat uncertain but leans towards Petersen.

"I'm going to go Thomas Peterson, I think. I'm going to go with Thomas Peterson because you know what? He actually does have a crafty wrestling game."
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Hesitant picked Apr 3, 2026 (1 day before fight)
Guilherme Pat

Zane picks Pat but is hesitant, noting that Pat lands bigger shots but gets mashed on the cage. He sees Pat as the better athlete and believes he could come in improved, but acknowledges Peterson's reproducible approach and wrestling advantage. The fight is likely a slog with Pat winning rounds on the feet but losing time in clinch.

Odds should be dead even; Pat opened +110, now -107; Peterson opened -130, now -113.
"I'll take Pat too, but this fight sucks... Pat lands the bigger shots in every round and then just gets mashed on the cage for three minutes per round."
LOSS vs Vitor Petrino
KO R3 0:26 · UFC Fight Night: Oliveira vs. Gamrot · Oct 11, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Vitor Petrino 2 31 of 54 57% 33 of 61 1 of 6 16% 0 0 3:03
Thomas Petersen 0 16 of 35 45% 41 of 62 0 of 8 0% 0 0 2:06
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Vitor Petrino 1 13 of 20 65% 15 of 27 1 of 3 33% 0 0 2:42
Thomas Petersen 0 1 of 5 20% 22 of 27 0 of 6 0% 0 0 0:58
2 Vitor Petrino 0 14 of 28 50% 14 of 28 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:20
Thomas Petersen 0 13 of 28 46% 17 of 33 0 of 2 0% 0 0 1:08
3 Vitor Petrino 1 4 of 6 66% 4 of 6 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:01
Thomas Petersen 0 2 of 2 100% 2 of 2 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Vitor Petrino 31 of 54 57% 25 of 46 5 of 7 1 of 1 13 of 29 9 of 12 9 of 13
Thomas Petersen 16 of 35 45% 7 of 25 9 of 10 0 of 0 13 of 29 3 of 6 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Vitor Petrino 13 of 20 65% 13 of 19 0 of 1 0 of 0 3 of 6 3 of 4 7 of 10
Thomas Petersen 1 of 5 20% 0 of 4 1 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 3 1 of 2 0 of 0
2 Vitor Petrino 14 of 28 50% 8 of 21 5 of 6 1 of 1 8 of 19 6 of 8 0 of 1
Thomas Petersen 13 of 28 46% 7 of 21 6 of 7 0 of 0 11 of 24 2 of 4 0 of 0
3 Vitor Petrino 4 of 6 66% 4 of 6 0 of 0 0 of 0 2 of 4 0 of 0 2 of 2
Thomas Petersen 2 of 2 100% 0 of 0 2 of 2 0 of 0 2 of 2 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Oct 5, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Vitor Petrino

Angelo picks Vitor Petrino, believing he is better everywhere except for pure grit. He thinks Vitor can find a finish, but acknowledges the risk of Thomas Petersen grinding out a win if he gets top position. He is undecided on betting due to Vitor's lack of true heavyweight size and the possibility of being controlled on the ground.

"I do think Vitor is better everywhere except just pure American grit and toughness. I think he gets Thomas Petersen out of there."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Oct 9, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Vitor Petrino

Big Brady picks Vitor Petrino to win by second-round knockout. He notes Petrino has filled out at heavyweight and put on muscle, and believes he will win because many heavyweights are not great. He thinks Petersen is more skilled than shown but won't outwrestle or outstrike Petrino. Brady leans toward a knockout, saying Petrino will touch Petersen's chin.

knockout
"I'm leaning knockout for VTO Petrino. I'll say he does touch the chin of Thomas Peterson. We'll say second round knockout for Vtorrino here."
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Oct 8, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Thomas Petersen

Cody picks Petersen as well, noting Petrino's history of underperforming as a favorite. He highlights Petrino's low volume and poor wrestling, while Petersen is a better wrestler and throws more volume. He expects a close fight but sees value in the underdog.

"I'm going Pison as well, but because it's in Brazil and I know Thomas Patterson really isn't a world beater by any stretch, it likely is the PRP pick this week all the way at the bottom."
LU
Lucrative James Expert Lean picked Oct 8, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Vitor Petrino

Lucrative James picks Vitor Petrino by KO, but is not confident due to Petrino's chin issues and the -310 price. He notes Petrino's power advantage and Petersen's poor striking defense. He acknowledges Petersen's wrestling and cardio could grind out a decision, but sees a knockout as most likely. He mentions he might bet against his pick with a Petersen decision longshot.

Vitor Petrino by KO (+140), Thomas Petersen by decision (+600)
"I'm going to pick VTO Petrino via KO, but I don't love the pick and I'm definitely not in love with the price tag at minus 310."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Oct 9, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Thomas Petersen

Manpreet picks Petersen as an underdog, believing that if Petersen can avoid Petrino's early knockout power, his wrestling and cardio will take over. He notes Petersen's dominant performance against Mayes and expects him to wear Petrino down, potentially finishing in round three. He loves the plus 260 line and also considers the round three prop.

Petersen round three TKO (+1500); Petersen by decision (+550)
"I'd rather lean on that prop rather than taking the money line on Petrino, but at the end of the day, I'm going to lean Peterson here."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Oct 8, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Thomas Petersen

Paul picks Petersen as a dog, citing Petrino's poor wrestling and low volume. He notes Petersen's wrestling credentials and durability, and believes he can outwork Petrino. He calls it a 'dog or pass' fight.

"For me, it's Dogger Pass. Thomas Peterson, where are you at with this fight?"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Oct 7, 2025 (4 days before fight)
Vitor Petrino

The MMA Guru picks Vitor Petrino over Thomas Petersen, citing Petrino's size, power, and grappling skills. He notes Petersen is out of shape and Petrino showed good jiu-jitsu in his last fight. He predicts a TKO finish in the first round.

TKO in round 1
"I'm going to go with Vtor Patino. TKO finish in the first round over Thomas Peterson."
Decision R3 5:00 · UFC on ESPN: Sandhagen vs. Figueiredo · May 03, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Thomas Petersen 0 28 of 51 54% 105 of 166 9 of 9 100% 1 0 13:49
Don'Tale Mayes 0 3 of 11 27% 13 of 23 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Thomas Petersen 0 1 of 3 33% 12 of 19 3 of 3 100% 1 0 4:34
Don'Tale Mayes 0 1 of 5 20% 9 of 15 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Thomas Petersen 0 5 of 19 26% 36 of 69 2 of 2 100% 0 0 4:27
Don'Tale Mayes 0 1 of 4 25% 3 of 6 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Thomas Petersen 0 22 of 29 75% 57 of 78 4 of 4 100% 0 0 4:48
Don'Tale Mayes 0 1 of 2 50% 1 of 2 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Thomas Petersen 28 of 51 54% 28 of 51 0 of 0 0 of 0 1 of 5 1 of 1 26 of 45
Don'Tale Mayes 3 of 11 27% 1 of 8 2 of 3 0 of 0 3 of 11 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Thomas Petersen 1 of 3 33% 1 of 3 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 2 0 of 0 1 of 1
Don'Tale Mayes 1 of 5 20% 1 of 5 0 of 0 0 of 0 1 of 5 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Thomas Petersen 5 of 19 26% 5 of 19 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 2 1 of 1 4 of 16
Don'Tale Mayes 1 of 4 25% 0 of 2 1 of 2 0 of 0 1 of 4 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Thomas Petersen 22 of 29 75% 22 of 29 0 of 0 0 of 0 1 of 1 0 of 0 21 of 28
Don'Tale Mayes 1 of 2 50% 0 of 1 1 of 1 0 of 0 1 of 2 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Apr 27, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Thomas Petersen

Angelo sees this as a straightforward matchup: if Thomas Petersen gets takedowns, he wins; if he stays on the feet too long, he gets knocked out. He notes that Don'Tale Mayes has struggled with grapplers recently, and Petersen took down his last opponent easily. He believes Petersen's wrestling will be the deciding factor.

"I like Peterson here, but another weird fight with crazy odds."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Apr 29, 2025 (4 days before fight)
Thomas Petersen

Big Brady is confident in Thomas Petersen, expecting his best performance to date. He highlights Petersen's wrestling background and vicious ground and pound, noting that Mayes has poor takedown defense (57%) and looks bad when taken down, citing examples like Valter Walker's heel hook and Shamil Gaz's control. He questions Mayes's motivation, pointing out his social media silence and poor shape at weigh-ins. He predicts Petersen will take Mayes down and finish him by TKO in round two.

Round 2 TKO
"I think Thomas train Peterson has his best performance to date. Takes Dantel Maize down to the ground and either pounds him out or or finds a potential submission."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lean picked May 1, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Thomas Petersen

Mayes is an average heavyweight with a 5-5 UFC record. Petersen can dictate the pace with his developing striking and mix in takedowns. I expect Petersen to grind out a decision win.

"I'm expecting Peterson to grind this out and win it on the scorecards."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Hesitant picked Apr 30, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Don'Tale Mayes

The MMA Guru picks Don'Tale Mayes as an underdog, despite acknowledging Mayes' poor record. He believes Mayes is more athletic on the feet, has a 7-inch reach advantage, and better cardio. He predicts Mayes will stuff takedowns and eventually get a TKO in round two, possibly after Petersen fails a takedown and Mayes gains top position.

TKO in round 2
"I'm going to go with Dantel Mazize. He's been in the UFC for a long time. He's got a lot of experience."
LOSS vs Shamil Gaziev
KO R1 3:12 · UFC Fight Night: Adesanya vs. Imavov · Feb 01, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Shamil Gaziev 1 14 of 32 43% 14 of 32 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:01
Thomas Petersen 0 19 of 34 55% 19 of 35 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:08
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Shamil Gaziev 1 14 of 32 43% 14 of 32 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:01
Thomas Petersen 0 19 of 34 55% 19 of 35 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:08
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Shamil Gaziev 14 of 32 43% 9 of 27 5 of 5 0 of 0 13 of 30 1 of 2 0 of 0
Thomas Petersen 19 of 34 55% 4 of 18 7 of 8 8 of 8 18 of 31 1 of 3 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Shamil Gaziev 14 of 32 43% 9 of 27 5 of 5 0 of 0 13 of 30 1 of 2 0 of 0
Thomas Petersen 19 of 34 55% 4 of 18 7 of 8 8 of 8 18 of 31 1 of 3 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Shamil Gaziev vs. Thomas Petersen

Round 1
Action moves to the heavyweight division, where Gaziev (13-1, 2-1 UFC) squares off with a former Legacy Fighting Alliance champion in Petersen (9-2, 1-1 UFC). Herzog administers he law and order. Customary glove touch gets them started. Gaziev takes the center and fires off two punches. Short elbow on the inside from Gaziev. Petersen answers with a low kick, then another. They trade right hands. Body kick from Gaziev. Petersen paws with his jab, then fires one to the body. Short right hook finds the mark for Gaziev, who plods forward against the southpaw. Petersen completes a takedown but fails to corral his opponent on the mat. Gaziev easily gets back to his feet and connects with two straight rights. Chopping right hand from Gaziev.
They circle in the center of the cage, and Gaziev connects with a crushing right hook that floors the American where he stands. No follow-up shots are required
.

The Official Result
Shamil Gaziev def. Thomas Petersen—TKO (Punch) 3:12 R1
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jan 26, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Shamil Gaziev

Angelo picks Shamil Gaziev, believing he is the better fighter despite a loss to Rozenstruik. He notes that Gaziev has improved his cardio and bounced back with a decision win. He thinks Gaziev's power and physicality will be too much for Thomas Petersen, who is solid but not spectacular. He includes Gaziev in a parlay with Mike Davis.

Included in a parlay with Mike Davis.
"I think Shamil is a far better fighter I'm also a little worried I'm not entirely sold on him I'm not entirely sold on Mike Davis"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Jan 27, 2025 (5 days before fight)
Shamil Gaziev

Big Brady thinks Shamil Gaziev has awful cardio but will likely knock out Thomas Petersen early. He notes Gaziev has much more power and Petersen is hitable. Brady expects a first-round knockout, but says if the fight extends it will be 'greasy'. He is staying away from betting Gaziev at -330 and might live bet Petersen.

first round knockout
"I think gaze probably does clip Peterson and knock him out early but yeah if this fight gets extended uh it's going to be greasy it's going to be greasy but I'll say Shamil gaze wins this fight it wins …"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Jan 30, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Thomas Petersen

Petersen's wrestling background will allow him to keep the fight upright and use his jab and volume to outwork Gaziev, who struggles when he can't secure takedowns or control against the cage. Petersen is a plus-300 underdog and is expected to win on the scorecards.

plus 300 underdog
"Peterson will be able to force him especially with the wrestling background that he brings to the table look for Peterson to keep this fight upright utilize his jab and his output volume to really put it on Gaziev and …"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jan 28, 2025 (4 days before fight)
Shamil Gaziev

The MMA Guru picks Shamil Gaziev to win by third-round finish. He calls Gaziev 'The Blob' and says he pushes forward and is there to win. He thinks Gaziev will start to pick up the pace as the fight goes on and get a late finish over Thomas Petersen, who he calls a 'fat idiot' with unimpressive skills.

third round finish
"I'm GNA go of the great Shamil gaziev to blob all over him... he will start to pick up the pace and maybe get a third round finish"
Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 30–27) R3 5:00 · UFC on ESPN: Lemos vs. Jandiroba · Jul 20, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Thomas Petersen 0 63 of 185 34% 63 of 185 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Mohammed Usman 0 76 of 138 55% 98 of 164 2 of 5 40% 0 0 1:01
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Thomas Petersen 0 22 of 50 44% 22 of 50 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Mohammed Usman 0 22 of 41 53% 24 of 43 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:03
2 Thomas Petersen 0 17 of 60 28% 17 of 60 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Mohammed Usman 0 25 of 45 55% 30 of 52 1 of 2 50% 0 0 0:36
3 Thomas Petersen 0 24 of 75 32% 24 of 75 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Mohammed Usman 0 29 of 52 55% 44 of 69 1 of 2 50% 0 0 0:22
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Thomas Petersen 63 of 185 34% 44 of 151 19 of 33 0 of 1 61 of 181 2 of 4 0 of 0
Mohammed Usman 76 of 138 55% 58 of 117 13 of 16 5 of 5 72 of 134 3 of 3 1 of 1
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Thomas Petersen 22 of 50 44% 18 of 44 4 of 6 0 of 0 20 of 46 2 of 4 0 of 0
Mohammed Usman 22 of 41 53% 13 of 32 6 of 6 3 of 3 20 of 39 2 of 2 0 of 0
2 Thomas Petersen 17 of 60 28% 9 of 46 8 of 13 0 of 1 17 of 60 0 of 0 0 of 0
Mohammed Usman 25 of 45 55% 20 of 37 4 of 7 1 of 1 24 of 44 1 of 1 0 of 0
3 Thomas Petersen 24 of 75 32% 17 of 61 7 of 14 0 of 0 24 of 75 0 of 0 0 of 0
Mohammed Usman 29 of 52 55% 25 of 48 3 of 3 1 of 1 28 of 51 0 of 0 1 of 1
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Lean picked Jul 14, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Mohammed Usman

Angelo picks Mohammed Usman because he is the larger, more physically imposing fighter with a brick for a head and decent power. He notes that neither fighter is very good or entertaining, and that Usman's takedown defense should hold up against Petersen's wrestling. However, he explicitly says he cannot bet on low-level heavyweight fights, so this is a lean with no stake.

"The pick is going to be Usman though he is physically imposing he's the much larger human being here he should be able to defend some of those takedowns"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Jul 17, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Thomas Petersen

Cody picks Petersen, noting his youth (29) and wrestling pedigree. He thinks if Petersen can get takedowns, he can control Usman. He admits Usman has better striking and cardio but believes Petersen's southpaw stance and sophomore improvement could be factors. He calls it a dogger pass situation and sides with the underdog.

"I'm going Thomas Pon."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Jul 17, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Mohammed Usman

Daniel Vreeland picks Mohammed Usman, noting his improvements and ability to last three rounds. He believes Usman can defend takedowns and tire out Petersen, who gasses when his takedown game fails. Vreeland expects Usman to take over late in the fight.

"I'm gonna go with Mo Usman to win this fight"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lean picked Jul 17, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Thomas Petersen

Petersen is a slight dog at +110. He has a wrestling-heavy approach but needs to improve his striking to avoid being picked apart. Usman is not as crisp a striker as Jamal Pogues, which could allow Petersen to have more success with his wrestling. Petersen's pressure and pace should wear down Usman around the 6-minute mark, leading to a decision win. However, I need to see improvements in Petersen's striking before I'm confident enough to invest heavily.

"I need to seal the improvements in play for Peterson especially with the Striking before I can be confident enough in investing in him but as a slight dog I do think he actually ends up pulling off this uh …"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Jul 17, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Mohammed Usman

Paul picks Usman, citing his wrestling background, takedown defense (never taken down in UFC), and better striking. He thinks Petersen's wrestling won't be effective and that Usman will edge a decision or get a late finish. He calls the line very playable.

"I think it's Usman all day."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jul 16, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Mohammed Usman

The MMA Guru picks Mohammed Usman over Thomas Petersen, calling Petersen 'garbage' and a 'fat dum dum'. He notes Usman has knockout power and is more technical, with better conditioning and athleticism. He dismisses Petersen's size and recent loss to Jamal Poges, concluding Usman should win easily.

"Mo Usman should win this fight he's more technical he's got better conditioning he's a better athlete more power he's better than Thomas Peterson"
LOSS vs Jamal Pogues
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 30–27) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Dolidze vs. Imavov · Feb 03, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Jamal Pogues 0 58 of 86 67% 116 of 153 1 of 6 16% 0 0 2:47
Thomas Petersen 0 65 of 124 52% 66 of 125 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:04
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Jamal Pogues 0 9 of 17 52% 46 of 57 1 of 2 50% 0 0 1:41
Thomas Petersen 0 24 of 43 55% 24 of 43 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Jamal Pogues 0 22 of 32 68% 40 of 56 0 of 2 0% 0 0 1:06
Thomas Petersen 0 22 of 35 62% 22 of 35 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Jamal Pogues 0 27 of 37 72% 30 of 40 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:00
Thomas Petersen 0 19 of 46 41% 20 of 47 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:04
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Jamal Pogues 58 of 86 67% 26 of 50 30 of 34 2 of 2 54 of 81 4 of 5 0 of 0
Thomas Petersen 65 of 124 52% 43 of 94 15 of 23 7 of 7 56 of 111 9 of 13 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Jamal Pogues 9 of 17 52% 5 of 13 4 of 4 0 of 0 9 of 17 0 of 0 0 of 0
Thomas Petersen 24 of 43 55% 16 of 30 5 of 10 3 of 3 23 of 42 1 of 1 0 of 0
2 Jamal Pogues 22 of 32 68% 15 of 23 7 of 9 0 of 0 19 of 29 3 of 3 0 of 0
Thomas Petersen 22 of 35 62% 15 of 27 6 of 7 1 of 1 14 of 26 8 of 9 0 of 0
3 Jamal Pogues 27 of 37 72% 6 of 14 19 of 21 2 of 2 26 of 35 1 of 2 0 of 0
Thomas Petersen 19 of 46 41% 12 of 37 4 of 6 3 of 3 19 of 43 0 of 3 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jan 28, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Thomas Petersen

Angelo picks Thomas Petersen, the prospect, over Jamal Pogues. He notes that the UFC often sets up fights to test prospects, and Petersen's wrestling should be good enough to get Pogues to the ground. He acknowledges Petersen's striking is poor but believes his wrestling will carry him. He also mentions that Pogues lacks one-punch knockout power to turn the fight around.

Petersen included in a parlay
"Thomas Peterson is the pick and I do have a parlay with him"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Jan 29, 2024 (5 days before fight)
Thomas Petersen

Big Brady picks Thomas Petersen to win by TKO ground and pound within the first two rounds. He notes Petersen is the bigger, stronger fighter with a wrestling background and vicious ground and pound, while Jamal Pogues has looked lackluster at heavyweight and has been taken down by smaller fighters. The main concern is Petersen's cardio, as he was knocked out in the third round in his only fight that went that far, but Brady expects an early finish.

TKO ground and pound, first two rounds
"give me Peterson here I think Peterson stops Jamal poges within the first two rounds I'll call it a TKO ground and pound"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Jan 31, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Thomas Petersen

Cody leans to Petersen, but is wary of Pogues' potential if he makes weight. He notes Pogues' weight issues and poor performance against Parkin. He thinks Petersen's wrestling and cardio could be decisive, but he's not confident.

"I gotta go with Thomas Peterson to want it more"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lean picked Jan 29, 2024 (5 days before fight)
Thomas Petersen

Petersen has good forward pressure and wrestling, but his gas tank is a concern after gassing in his only loss. Pogues has been to four straight decisions and may struggle to implement his striking or grappling. The host leans slightly to Petersen, expecting him to grind out a decision win if he avoids big shots and manages his cardio.

Over 1.5 rounds is mentioned at -220, and the host expects the fight to go to a decision.
"I lean ever so slightly with the Thomas Peterson side although minus 170 is a little bit wide considering the experienced disadvantage."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Jan 31, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Thomas Petersen

Paul picks Petersen by submission, taking a small sprinkle at +750. He notes Petersen's wrestling and submission win last time, and Pogues' weight and cardio issues. He thinks the prop is overpriced.

Petersen by submission +750
"Peterson sub plus 750"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jan 30, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Jamal Pogues

The MMA Guru picks Jamal Pogues over Thomas Petersen, calling both fighters 'fat middleweights' and an 'embarrassment to the sport.' He believes Pogues has the takedown defense to avoid being taken down by Petersen, and if it stays standing, Pogues has better boxing. He dismisses Petersen's win on the Contender Series as beating a 'gelatinous blob.'

"I'm going to have to go with Jamal poges funnily enough... I think Jamal poges has the takedown defense... and I think if he doesn't get taken down he has better boxing."
Mohammed Usman - Fight History
CANCEL vs Valter Walker
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Oct 5, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Valter Walker

Angelo picks Valter Walker, noting his wrestling and heel hook expertise. He believes Valter should win by takedown and submission, but expresses concern about Valter's striking and potential to quit if takedowns are defended. He has low confidence in Mohammed Usman's skill set, calling him not a great fighter. He advises caution due to Valter's shaky performance in his last fight.

"Valter should absolutely win this fight. He should. Should be pretty straightforward. Get a takedown, rip off a limb, get on with your day."
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Oct 8, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Mohammed Usman

Cody picks Usman but is not confident, noting Walker's submission threat. He believes Usman's wrestling and durability can neutralize Walker, but expects a close fight. He suggests passing or taking the sub prop on Walker.

over 2.5 rounds (+115)
"I think it goes to decision. I think it's an over two and a half."
LU
Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Oct 8, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Valter Walker

Lucrative James picks Valter Walker, highlighting his signature heel hook and the fact that Mohammed Usman is the type of fighter to get caught in one. He notes Walker's three consecutive heel hook wins in the UFC and believes Usman's grappling defense is not elite. He also mentions Walker's improved physique and cardio, and expects a round one submission. He likes the under 2.5 rounds (-135) and Walker by submission (+175).

under 2.5 rounds (-135), Valter Walker by submission (+175), Valter Walker round 1 (+255), Valter Walker round 1 submission (+400)
"I've got VA Walker in this fight guys. Muhammad Usman doesn't have much in my opinion."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lean picked Oct 9, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Valter Walker

Manpreet picks Walker to win by submission but is not confident in the moneyline at -315. He notes Walker's heel hook threat but also his vulnerability if the submission fails. He suggests Usman at plus 265 is worth consideration if he can avoid early danger. He prefers the submission prop at +175.

Walker by submission (+175); Usman by decision (+550)
"I'm going to pick Walker to win. I'll likely pick him to win by submission. But, that money line is just nothing I want to get near."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Oct 8, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Mohammed Usman

Paul picks Usman as a dog, citing Walker's one-dimensional game of fishing for heel hooks. He notes Usman's wrestling defense and jab, and believes he can stuff takedowns and win a decision. He suggests the over and Usman by decision.

over 2.5 rounds (+115)
"I still am going to outright pick Usman along the same basis of why I faded Patrino against Person."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Oct 7, 2025 (4 days before fight)
Valter Walker

The MMA Guru picks Valter Walker over Mohammed Usman, citing Walker's recent leg lock submissions and Usman's tentative, scared fighting style. He believes Walker will march forward and secure a heel hook submission in the first round. He notes Usman is more of an athlete than a fighter.

submission in round 1
"I'm going to go with Vultter Walker getting that leg and getting Muhammad Usman out of there in the first round by submission."
Decision R3 5:00 · UFC on ABC: Hill vs. Rountree Jr. · Jun 21, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Hamdy Abdelwahab 0 55 of 123 44% 55 of 124 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:02
Mohammed Usman 0 86 of 179 48% 86 of 179 0 of 4 0% 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Hamdy Abdelwahab 0 16 of 32 50% 16 of 32 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Mohammed Usman 0 9 of 46 19% 9 of 46 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Hamdy Abdelwahab 0 21 of 39 53% 21 of 40 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:02
Mohammed Usman 0 29 of 54 53% 29 of 54 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
3 Hamdy Abdelwahab 0 18 of 52 34% 18 of 52 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Mohammed Usman 0 48 of 79 60% 48 of 79 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Hamdy Abdelwahab 55 of 123 44% 34 of 97 10 of 13 11 of 13 55 of 123 0 of 0 0 of 0
Mohammed Usman 86 of 179 48% 44 of 123 41 of 54 1 of 2 86 of 179 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Hamdy Abdelwahab 16 of 32 50% 9 of 22 1 of 2 6 of 8 16 of 32 0 of 0 0 of 0
Mohammed Usman 9 of 46 19% 8 of 42 1 of 3 0 of 1 9 of 46 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Hamdy Abdelwahab 21 of 39 53% 13 of 31 5 of 5 3 of 3 21 of 39 0 of 0 0 of 0
Mohammed Usman 29 of 54 53% 16 of 34 12 of 19 1 of 1 29 of 54 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Hamdy Abdelwahab 18 of 52 34% 12 of 44 4 of 6 2 of 2 18 of 52 0 of 0 0 of 0
Mohammed Usman 48 of 79 60% 20 of 47 28 of 32 0 of 0 48 of 79 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Hesitant picked Jun 20, 2025 (1 day before fight)
Hamdy Abdelwahab

Angelo picks Hamdy Abdelwahab but with significant reservations. He notes that Hamdy is an Olympic wrestler but has looked sloppy, gasses easily, and hasn't shown good cardio. He mentions that Mohammed Usman is big and athletic but may not be fully committed, citing an interview where his brother said he's on the fence about continuing. Angelo ultimately fades both for fantasy but picks Hamdy due to the potential for takedowns if Usman is not prepared.

Fading both for fantasy; mentions Hamdy's potential for high scoring if he uses wrestling but doubts it.
"I'm picked Hamdi because while Muhammad Usman is big and he's athletic and he does have some raw power, we've seen it and he doesn't gas nearly as quickly as Hamdi does."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Jun 18, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Hamdy Abdelwahab

Big Brady picks Hamdy Abdelwahab but is not excited about the fight. He expects Abdelwahab to get a takedown in the first round, gas out, and then the fight becomes a low-volume affair going to decision. He thinks Abdelwahab clearly lost his last fight but will get the nod from judges. He predicts Abdelwahab by decision and says he will look to fade him in the future.

decision, fade in the future
"Give me Hamdy. Hamdy to win by decision."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Hesitant picked Jun 19, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Hamdy Abdelwahab

The host is not a big believer in Abdelwahab but thinks Usman is not good either. He expects Abdelwahab's aggressiveness and wrestling threat to keep Usman moving backward, allowing Abdelwahab to grind out a decision win.

"I'm not a big Abdul Wahab believer, but Usman is not that good either. I think the aggressiveness and a possible wrestling threat of Abdul Wahab will keep Usman moving back backward and eating some big shots allowing Abdaw Wahhab …"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jun 20, 2025 (1 day before fight)
Mohammed Usman

The MMA Guru picks Mohammed Usman as an underdog, calling Hamdy Abdelwahab 'absolute garbage' and a 'fat sack of garbage'. He believes the odds are skewed because Abdelwahab is undefeated, but sees the fight as 50/50. He expects Usman's reach advantage and better conditioning to allow him to outpoint Abdelwahab in the later rounds, predicting a 29-28 decision.

Fight goes to decision, Usman wins by decision 29-28
"I'm going to go with the underdog to start the card of Muhammad Usman here. I'm picking Muhammad Usman to win."
LOSS vs Thomas Petersen
Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 30–27) R3 5:00 · UFC on ESPN: Lemos vs. Jandiroba · Jul 20, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Thomas Petersen 0 63 of 185 34% 63 of 185 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Mohammed Usman 0 76 of 138 55% 98 of 164 2 of 5 40% 0 0 1:01
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Thomas Petersen 0 22 of 50 44% 22 of 50 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Mohammed Usman 0 22 of 41 53% 24 of 43 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:03
2 Thomas Petersen 0 17 of 60 28% 17 of 60 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Mohammed Usman 0 25 of 45 55% 30 of 52 1 of 2 50% 0 0 0:36
3 Thomas Petersen 0 24 of 75 32% 24 of 75 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Mohammed Usman 0 29 of 52 55% 44 of 69 1 of 2 50% 0 0 0:22
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Thomas Petersen 63 of 185 34% 44 of 151 19 of 33 0 of 1 61 of 181 2 of 4 0 of 0
Mohammed Usman 76 of 138 55% 58 of 117 13 of 16 5 of 5 72 of 134 3 of 3 1 of 1
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Thomas Petersen 22 of 50 44% 18 of 44 4 of 6 0 of 0 20 of 46 2 of 4 0 of 0
Mohammed Usman 22 of 41 53% 13 of 32 6 of 6 3 of 3 20 of 39 2 of 2 0 of 0
2 Thomas Petersen 17 of 60 28% 9 of 46 8 of 13 0 of 1 17 of 60 0 of 0 0 of 0
Mohammed Usman 25 of 45 55% 20 of 37 4 of 7 1 of 1 24 of 44 1 of 1 0 of 0
3 Thomas Petersen 24 of 75 32% 17 of 61 7 of 14 0 of 0 24 of 75 0 of 0 0 of 0
Mohammed Usman 29 of 52 55% 25 of 48 3 of 3 1 of 1 28 of 51 0 of 0 1 of 1
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Lean picked Jul 14, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Mohammed Usman

Angelo picks Mohammed Usman because he is the larger, more physically imposing fighter with a brick for a head and decent power. He notes that neither fighter is very good or entertaining, and that Usman's takedown defense should hold up against Petersen's wrestling. However, he explicitly says he cannot bet on low-level heavyweight fights, so this is a lean with no stake.

"The pick is going to be Usman though he is physically imposing he's the much larger human being here he should be able to defend some of those takedowns"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Jul 17, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Thomas Petersen

Cody picks Petersen, noting his youth (29) and wrestling pedigree. He thinks if Petersen can get takedowns, he can control Usman. He admits Usman has better striking and cardio but believes Petersen's southpaw stance and sophomore improvement could be factors. He calls it a dogger pass situation and sides with the underdog.

"I'm going Thomas Pon."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Jul 17, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Mohammed Usman

Daniel Vreeland picks Mohammed Usman, noting his improvements and ability to last three rounds. He believes Usman can defend takedowns and tire out Petersen, who gasses when his takedown game fails. Vreeland expects Usman to take over late in the fight.

"I'm gonna go with Mo Usman to win this fight"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lean picked Jul 17, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Thomas Petersen

Petersen is a slight dog at +110. He has a wrestling-heavy approach but needs to improve his striking to avoid being picked apart. Usman is not as crisp a striker as Jamal Pogues, which could allow Petersen to have more success with his wrestling. Petersen's pressure and pace should wear down Usman around the 6-minute mark, leading to a decision win. However, I need to see improvements in Petersen's striking before I'm confident enough to invest heavily.

"I need to seal the improvements in play for Peterson especially with the Striking before I can be confident enough in investing in him but as a slight dog I do think he actually ends up pulling off this uh …"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Jul 17, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Mohammed Usman

Paul picks Usman, citing his wrestling background, takedown defense (never taken down in UFC), and better striking. He thinks Petersen's wrestling won't be effective and that Usman will edge a decision or get a late finish. He calls the line very playable.

"I think it's Usman all day."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jul 16, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Mohammed Usman

The MMA Guru picks Mohammed Usman over Thomas Petersen, calling Petersen 'garbage' and a 'fat dum dum'. He notes Usman has knockout power and is more technical, with better conditioning and athleticism. He dismisses Petersen's size and recent loss to Jamal Poges, concluding Usman should win easily.

"Mo Usman should win this fight he's more technical he's got better conditioning he's a better athlete more power he's better than Thomas Peterson"
LOSS vs Mick Parkin
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC on ESPN: Ribas vs. Namajunas · Mar 23, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Mick Parkin 0 57 of 167 34% 57 of 168 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Mohammed Usman 0 72 of 150 48% 72 of 150 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Mick Parkin 0 15 of 48 31% 15 of 48 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Mohammed Usman 0 16 of 40 40% 16 of 40 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Mick Parkin 0 18 of 51 35% 18 of 51 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Mohammed Usman 0 20 of 41 48% 20 of 41 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Mick Parkin 0 24 of 68 35% 24 of 69 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Mohammed Usman 0 36 of 69 52% 36 of 69 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Mick Parkin 57 of 167 34% 26 of 114 30 of 52 1 of 1 57 of 167 0 of 0 0 of 0
Mohammed Usman 72 of 150 48% 37 of 109 4 of 4 31 of 37 71 of 149 1 of 1 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Mick Parkin 15 of 48 31% 11 of 39 4 of 9 0 of 0 15 of 48 0 of 0 0 of 0
Mohammed Usman 16 of 40 40% 6 of 27 0 of 0 10 of 13 16 of 40 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Mick Parkin 18 of 51 35% 5 of 32 12 of 18 1 of 1 18 of 51 0 of 0 0 of 0
Mohammed Usman 20 of 41 48% 9 of 27 2 of 2 9 of 12 20 of 41 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Mick Parkin 24 of 68 35% 10 of 43 14 of 25 0 of 0 24 of 68 0 of 0 0 of 0
Mohammed Usman 36 of 69 52% 22 of 55 2 of 2 12 of 12 35 of 68 1 of 1 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Mar 17, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Mick Parkin

Angelo picks Mick Parkin because he is the more technical fighter with sharper striking and slightly better takedowns. He expects a boring, slow, sloppy heavyweight decision, possibly with a stoppage from Parkin via takedown and ground control. He will stay away from betting unless the over 1.5 rounds line is available, which he would hammer.

over 1.5 rounds if available
"Mick is going to be the pick here I'm going to stay away from this unless we get a very lucky one and a half round line hopefully The Bookies say ah they're heavyweights one and a half then we'll …"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Mar 19, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Mick Parkin

Big Brady picks Mick Parkin, believing the fight will primarily be standing. He notes Parkin's striking looked good in his debut but was inconsistent against Kyle Machado. He thinks Parkin will land more strikes at range, while Usman has low volume and relies on power. Brady doubts Usman can knock out Parkin and expects a decision win for Parkin.

"I'm more so on the mick Parkin side... I'm taking Mick Park in here I'm taking to win this fight by decision"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Mar 21, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Mick Parkin

Cody picks Parkin, citing his size, mobility, and superior boxing. He criticizes Usman's low output and lack of power. Cody believes Parkin will outwork Usman and win a decision.

"Mick Parkin is going to find a way to just at work him."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Lean picked Mar 20, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Mohammed Usman

Daniel Vreeland leans toward Mohammed Usman, admiring his ability to find a way to win even in ugly fights. He notes Usman has power and wrestling, and can take Parkin down. He thinks Parkin is the cleaner striker but Usman's physicality and grit could carry him.

"I'm gonna lean towards the dog here"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Mar 19, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Mick Parkin

Parkin has a great gas tank for a heavyweight, good output, and excellent scrambling ability. He will pressure Usman, who has a low-volume kickboxing style and tends to slow down late. Parkin can win by decision or even snatch a late submission, as Usman has been submitted before. Usman's only path is a flash KO, but Parkin should control the fight.

Round 3 submission at +3000
"I think Parkin is absolutely capable of doing that once again here and I think that we can see Parkin either cruise to a decision or I think he actually does snatch up a submission late in this fight which …"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Mar 21, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Mick Parkin

Paul picks Parkin, noting his training with Tom Aspinall and his ability to go the distance. He acknowledges the line movement toward Usman but still favors Parkin's overall game.

"Parkin Parkin is the pick for me as well."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Mar 19, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Mohammed Usman

The MMA Guru picks Mohammed Usman over Mick Parkin, citing Parkin's poor last performance where he arguably lost and looked bad. He believes Usman's athleticism and wrestling will wear on Parkin as the fight goes on, with Usman landing takedowns in rounds two and three. He notes Parkin's eye swelling in his last fight and thinks Usman's power and pressure will be too much. He predicts a decision win for Usman.

decision win
"I'm actually gonna go with Muhammad Usman over Mick Parkin... I think mosman's going to be able to wear on Mick Parkin as the fight goes on... by decision"
WIN vs Jake Collier
Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Fiziev vs. Gamrot · Sep 23, 2023
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Mohammed Usman 0 85 of 191 44% 118 of 234 1 of 3 33% 0 0 3:07
Jake Collier 0 87 of 183 47% 100 of 198 0 of 0 --- 2 0 0:53
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Mohammed Usman 0 32 of 72 44% 34 of 74 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Jake Collier 0 41 of 89 46% 41 of 89 0 of 0 --- 1 0 0:49
2 Mohammed Usman 0 36 of 85 42% 37 of 87 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Jake Collier 0 34 of 68 50% 34 of 68 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:04
3 Mohammed Usman 0 17 of 34 50% 47 of 73 1 of 2 50% 0 0 3:07
Jake Collier 0 12 of 26 46% 25 of 41 0 of 0 --- 1 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Mohammed Usman 85 of 191 44% 58 of 156 27 of 35 0 of 0 83 of 186 1 of 3 1 of 2
Jake Collier 87 of 183 47% 53 of 145 22 of 25 12 of 13 80 of 171 7 of 12 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Mohammed Usman 32 of 72 44% 26 of 60 6 of 12 0 of 0 31 of 69 1 of 3 0 of 0
Jake Collier 41 of 89 46% 25 of 71 11 of 13 5 of 5 35 of 79 6 of 10 0 of 0
2 Mohammed Usman 36 of 85 42% 22 of 71 14 of 14 0 of 0 36 of 85 0 of 0 0 of 0
Jake Collier 34 of 68 50% 17 of 49 11 of 12 6 of 7 33 of 66 1 of 2 0 of 0
3 Mohammed Usman 17 of 34 50% 10 of 25 7 of 9 0 of 0 16 of 32 0 of 0 1 of 2
Jake Collier 12 of 26 46% 11 of 25 0 of 0 1 of 1 12 of 26 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Lean picked Sep 17, 2023 (6 days before fight)
Mohammed Usman

Angelo picks Usman due to size and speed advantage, but notes Collier has a great chin, busy jab, and more experience. He thinks Collier could win a close decision. He is not confident and only considers betting the over 1.5 rounds if available.

over 1.5 rounds (if line becomes available)
"the pick's gonna be Usman because of the side and speed difference but the only bet I would even consider here is if we get lucky enough to get a one and a half round line"
BI
Big Brady Expert Lean picked Sep 21, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Jake Collier

Big Brady picks Jake Collier with low confidence, calling the fight a mess. He notes Collier is the better striker by far, has a wrestling background, and appears to be in better shape after dropping weight. He worries about Collier's grappling at heavyweight but believes he can stuff takedowns and keep the fight standing. He is not betting this fight.

"I'm gonna pick Collier here you know this fight is um a greasy fight for sure"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Sep 20, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Jake Collier

Cody picks Jake Collier as a live underdog, citing his volume and speed advantage if his cardio holds. He notes Usman's low output and stiffness. He is encouraged by Collier looking trimmer on social media and thinks if Collier can last past the first round, he wins.

"I will take Collier plus 115 that I would feel way better on Friday if we see him touch the scales and look decent."
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Sep 21, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Mohammed Usman

Daniel picks Usman confidently, comparing Collier to Jared Vandera as a fan-favorite who loses. He notes Collier is 2-5 at heavyweight and was finished by Chris Barnett. He thinks Usman's physicality and takedowns will be too much, and Collier has never faced a takedown attempt at heavyweight. He expects Usman to control and possibly finish.

"I think Usman you know probably lands a couple takedowns it's probably ugly sloppy fight with Usman coming out on top"
LU
Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Sep 20, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Jake Collier

Lucrative James picks Collier, believing he should be favored. He notes Collier's high volume and finishing upside, while Usman lacks finishing ability. He thinks Collier can win by decision or finish, and sees value at plus 150. He acknowledges Collier's cardio issues but expects him to do enough early.

over 2.5 rounds -135 considered as standalone
"I like Jake Collier in this spot... I don't think he should be an underdog."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Sep 21, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Jake Collier

The host picks Collier as a live underdog, expecting the best version of him given his improved shape and urgency. He notes Collier has advantages in combination striking and volume, and that Usman is a low-volume kickboxer who may struggle if he can't grapple. He predicts a decision win for Collier and also likes the over 2.5 rounds prop.

over 2.5 rounds
"give me Jake Collier to pull off a decision victory"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Sep 20, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Jake Collier

Paul sides with Collier at plus money, noting Usman's low volume (7 significant strikes in his last fight). He thinks Collier's experience and volume will be too much if he doesn't gas. He mentions Collier's takedown defense against Buday.

"I'm gonna I'm siding with you with uh plus 150 and there are plus 130s out there to be had on Jake Collier."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Sep 19, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Mohammed Usman

The MMA Guru picks Mohammed Usman, criticizing Jake Collier as a 'morbidly obese middleweight' who no longer cares. He praises Usman's athleticism, knockout power, and commitment, noting he is on a two-fight win streak and won The Ultimate Fighter. He acknowledges Collier's decent hands but believes Usman's wrestling and power will be too much. He mentions Collier could catch him as an underdog but ultimately favors Usman's style.

"I'm gonna go mooseman there was a part of me that wanted to say you know what Jake Collier might Rock him but tougher's pretty good and Usman did survive him..."
WIN vs Junior Tafa
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Pavlovich vs. Blaydes · Apr 22, 2023
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Mohammed Usman 0 7 of 29 24% 79 of 133 2 of 12 16% 0 0 12:03
Junior Tafa 0 22 of 61 36% 37 of 78 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Mohammed Usman 0 1 of 12 8% 16 of 36 0 of 4 0% 0 0 3:26
Junior Tafa 0 8 of 24 33% 11 of 28 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Mohammed Usman 0 4 of 12 33% 38 of 59 1 of 5 20% 0 0 4:09
Junior Tafa 0 6 of 18 33% 13 of 25 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Mohammed Usman 0 2 of 5 40% 25 of 38 1 of 3 33% 0 0 4:28
Junior Tafa 0 8 of 19 42% 13 of 25 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Mohammed Usman 7 of 29 24% 6 of 28 1 of 1 0 of 0 2 of 22 2 of 2 3 of 5
Junior Tafa 22 of 61 36% 17 of 55 5 of 6 0 of 0 12 of 45 10 of 16 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Mohammed Usman 1 of 12 8% 1 of 12 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 11 1 of 1 0 of 0
Junior Tafa 8 of 24 33% 6 of 22 2 of 2 0 of 0 5 of 20 3 of 4 0 of 0
2 Mohammed Usman 4 of 12 33% 3 of 11 1 of 1 0 of 0 1 of 7 1 of 1 2 of 4
Junior Tafa 6 of 18 33% 4 of 16 2 of 2 0 of 0 5 of 15 1 of 3 0 of 0
3 Mohammed Usman 2 of 5 40% 2 of 5 0 of 0 0 of 0 1 of 4 0 of 0 1 of 1
Junior Tafa 8 of 19 42% 7 of 17 1 of 2 0 of 0 2 of 10 6 of 9 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Junior Tafa vs. Mohammed Usman
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Tafa (-115), Usman (-105)

Round 1
Up now, heavyweights take center stage, when two brothers of more established UFC competitors come to blows. Tachi Palace Fights vet Usman (8-2, 1-0 UFC) aims to go 2-0 in the promotion, while “The Juggernaut” Tafa (4-0, 0-0 UFC) would like nothing more than to keep his 100% knockout rate intact. It’s high alert for referee Mark Smith, as the likelihood that this reaches the scorecards is low. Fists are tapped, and Usman moves to lead the dance immediately. Tafa is comfortable putting his back against the wall, but they are extremely respectful of the other’s power as they do not trade a strike in the first 35 seconds. Tafa finally reaches Usman with a left hand, and he tosses out a front kick to draw an exaggerated, energetic charging double-leg takedown attempt. Tafa gets pushed back to the wire, and he looks to fight out of this position by framing his elbow on Usman’s face. “The Motor” stalls as he pushes the Kiwi out of Australia up against the fencing, holding him there without bothering to swing a single strike. Smith asks Usman to work as they pummel for underhooks, and Usman gets a knee off to the body while searching for a better posture. Tafa briefly turns him out, and they spin one another around. Tafa releases a high knee that glances off the side of the head, and Usman drops to a knee and tries for another takedown. Tafa grabs the top of the cage to stay afloat, and Usman squeezes him tightly like he is trying to make play-do shapes out of his back. Tafa gets just enough space to unload a combination of punches, and Usman gets staggered and wobbles back. Tafa swings everything he has into his punches, and Usman is on ice skates as he backs off. Tafa misses with some massive hooks, lands with others, and reaches Usman with a head kick. The round ends before Tafa can completely hammer the nail.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Tafa
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Tafa
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Tafa

Round 2
The heavyweights have reached Round 2, and Usman is light on his feet as he tries to get them completely beneath him. Tafa slowly walks him down instead of swinging for the bleachers, and he aims an uppercut to just miss the mark of a shooting Usman. Tafa drops his hands and starts throwing bungalows, and Usman takes several on the chin and wobbles back, stung again from the blows. Usman tries to connect with a short right hook, and settles for a single-leg entry. The Kiwi considers elbowing Usman on the side of the head like Travis Brown to Josh Barnett, but he stops throwing them to keep his balance. Usman gains the upper hand, and he elevates Tafa and dumps him to the floor. Usman smothers his man in half guard when he jumps on top, much more interested than position than a dropping a few feeble hammerfists. Tafa lays flat on his back, seemingly disappointed and totally unable to buck off or move to get “The Motor” off of him. Usman slowly scoots his way to a better offensive posture while still in half guard, but his strikes have practically nothing on them as he seems to be heavily fatigued. Usman sits up and drives a few punches to the body to better effect, as he remains chest-to-chest to keep Tafa down. The round ends with Usman throwing a few labored punches.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Usman
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Usman
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Usman

Round 3
The heavyweights come out lumbering from their corners, and Tafa is the aggressor to start with a few winging punches. Usman jams him up with an attempted tackle, and he smushes Tafa into the chain-link fence. Using the remaining energy he has, Usman lifts Tafa up in the air and deposits him gingerly to the floor, where he steps over to half guard. Tafa leans up against the fence to try to wall-walk or at least be in a less disadvantageous position, but Usman is fully equipped to ruin the rest of his day with his wrestling. Usman holds on from above with his chest pinning Tafa to the mat, and Tafa starts talking to him to try to inspire some different approach. “The Motor” ignores him, hanging on from above in grueling, exhausting fashion, and he decides against taking mount so that he can keep Tafa pinned. With the last vestiges of his gas, Tafa bursts to his knees with 45 seconds to spare, and he walks up the wall. Usman doggedly pursues a single to put him back down, and time is Tafa’s greatest enemy right now as Usman controls him. Tafa elbows his man on the side of the head, and he pushes Usman back to belt him with a few punches. “The Juggernaut” charges at the spent Usman, unleashing everything he has left, but it is not enough before time expires to conclude the heavyweight slog.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Usman (29-28 Usman)
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Usman (29-28 Usman)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Usman (29-28 Usman)

The Official Result
Mohammad Usman def. Junior Tafa via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Hesitant picked Apr 16, 2023 (6 days before fight)
Junior Tafa

Angelo picks Junior Tafa but is hesitant, calling it a sketchy pick. He notes Tafa's power, speed, and technical kickboxing, but questions his takedown defense. He bet $25 on Tafa at -195 as an experiment based on line movement (Tafa opened as underdog, now favorite). He acknowledges the risk and advises not to blindly tail.

Bet $25 at -195 as an experiment based on line movement tracker.
"The official pick is going to be junior taffa it is a sketchy pick the odds are a little wide but I'm riding with the line movement tracker."
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Apr 18, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Mohammed Usman

Big Brady picks Mohammad Usman to win by a greasy decision, but he wants nothing to do with this fight from a betting perspective. He notes that Usman's path to victory is to wrestle and take the fight to the mat, as Tafa is a much better striker but has questionable takedown defense and cardio. However, Brady is not confident in Usman, calling him 'very bad' and noting he got lucky in his last fight. He also mentions the wild line movement but stayed away from betting it.

staying away from betting
"I'm going to take Muhammad Usman to make this ugly take this fight down to the mat consistently and win a a greasy decision here but I want nothing to do with this fight to be honest so staying away"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Apr 19, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Junior Tafa

Cody picks Tafa, calling him a world-class kickboxer while Usman is not good. He criticizes Usman's wrestling, cardio, and tendency to rely on one-punch power. Cody notes Usman's wins on The Ultimate Fighter were close and he struggled against older competition. He believes Tafa will win by knockout if the fight stays standing, which is likely.

"I'm actually going to agree 100 so when you look at Junior tawfo versus Justin tapa Junior was always a credible kickboxer of the family right"
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Lean picked Apr 20, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Mohammed Usman

Connor picks Mohammed Usman, reasoning that Usman is much bigger and stronger than Tafa, and that neither fighter is likely to get knocked out. He expects a wild brawl for five minutes followed by a slog, and thinks Usman's size will allow him to hold Tafa enough to win. Connor notes that Usman hits like a truck and has never been knocked out.

"I'm going to pick Tafa or I'm going to pick Usman rather to just be able to hold them enough to win."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Apr 17, 2023 (5 days before fight)
Mohammed Usman

Mohammad Usman has a massive experience advantage over Junior Tafa, who has less than a year of MMA experience. Usman is a mediocre fighter but has fought higher-level competition. Tafa is a raw kickboxer with poor takedown defense, as seen in his regional fights. Usman should be able to take the fight to the ground and grind out a decision or TKO. The odds have moved significantly in Tafa's favor, but Usman's MMA experience should prevail.

Usman by decision or TKO from top position
"I'm gonna go Mohammed Usman here Muhammad by decision maybe even by TKO from that top position"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Apr 19, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Junior Tafa

Paul also picks Tafa, agreeing with Cody. He notes that if Usman doesn't shoot for takedowns, Tafa will likely clip him. Paul acknowledges the risk that Usman could use wrestling, but doubts he will. He calls it a low-level heavyweight fight where anything can happen.

"I'm gonna be siding with Junior taffa with you"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Apr 18, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Junior Tafa

The MMA Guru picks Junior Tafa, going against Mohammad Usman. He sees no skill in Usman's game and notes Tafa's combat sports experience in boxing, kickboxing, and Muay Thai. He thinks Tafa's activity and momentum are advantages, and that Usman is unimpressive with losses to Brandon Sales and a split decision over Eduardo Perez. He predicts a first-round KO.

KO in the first round
"I'm gonna go against mooseman okay I'm gonna go against him because I just I don't see skill in his game and Junior tougher... I'm gonna go Junior tough I'll get in the first round KO"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Lean picked Apr 20, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Mohammed Usman

Zane also picks Mohammed Usman, but with low confidence, calling it a coin flip. He notes that Usman is stiff and disconnected but hits hard, while Tafa is a wild combination puncher who gasses. Zane thinks the fight will be a mess and that Usman's size advantage might be the deciding factor.

"I flip a goddamn coin. Usman just cause he's so much, he's clearly much bigger Tafa."
WIN vs Zac Pauga
KO (punches) R2 0:36 · UFC on ESPN: Santos vs. Hill · Aug 06, 2022
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Mohammed Usman 1 12 of 40 30% 13 of 41 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:02
Zac Pauga 0 32 of 50 64% 33 of 51 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Mohammed Usman 0 9 of 35 25% 10 of 36 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Zac Pauga 0 31 of 46 67% 32 of 47 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Mohammed Usman 1 3 of 5 60% 3 of 5 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Zac Pauga 0 1 of 4 25% 1 of 4 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Mohammed Usman 12 of 40 30% 11 of 39 1 of 1 0 of 0 9 of 35 1 of 2 2 of 3
Zac Pauga 32 of 50 64% 14 of 29 9 of 10 9 of 11 31 of 49 1 of 1 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Mohammed Usman 9 of 35 25% 8 of 34 1 of 1 0 of 0 8 of 32 1 of 2 0 of 1
Zac Pauga 31 of 46 67% 14 of 26 8 of 9 9 of 11 30 of 45 1 of 1 0 of 0
2 Mohammed Usman 3 of 5 60% 3 of 5 0 of 0 0 of 0 1 of 3 0 of 0 2 of 2
Zac Pauga 1 of 4 25% 0 of 3 1 of 1 0 of 0 1 of 4 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Lean picked Jul 31, 2022 (6 days before fight)
Mohammed Usman

Angelo has a slight lean towards Mohammed Usman due to his size, power, and physicality. He notes that Pauga is the better overall fighter but his size disadvantage at heavyweight could be decisive. He references Pauga being dropped by Terence Jacquez and believes a similar shot from Usman could finish him. However, he acknowledges Usman has had issues with wrestlers in the past.

"I think it's a very slight very slight lean towards usman with the incredible power and the phys physicality"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Aug 2, 2022 (4 days before fight)
Zac Pauga

Big Brady picks Zac Pauga, noting his speed and cardio advantages over Mohammed Usman. He criticizes Usman's low volume and poor cardio, and praises Pauga's takedown defense and improved striking. He predicts Pauga will stuff takedowns and win a decision, though he notes Pauga is undersized for heavyweight. He also mentions Pauga's training at Elevation Fight Team with Curtis Blaydes.

decision win prediction
"i still think zach powell should win this fight and win it by decision stuffing the takedowns if they come"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Aug 3, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Zac Pauga

Cody also picks Pauga, highlighting his undefeated record and clean performances on TUF. He notes that Pauga is a natural 205-pounder who moved up for the show and will likely move back down. Cody contrasts Pauga's refined skills with Usman's poor losses and questionable wins, including a controversial decision. He believes Pauga's speed and output will overwhelm Usman.

"I got to agree with Zach Pauga being the pick... he looked really good on the ultimate fighter... he never gets touched once."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Aug 3, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Zac Pauga

Paul picks Pauga, noting that Pauga is a former football player with good mobility and athleticism. He mentions that Pauga looked impressive on The Ultimate Fighter, throwing spinning attacks and showing improvement. Paul is wary of laying -250 on a debuting heavyweight but sees Pauga as the clear pick.

"Zach Pauga is clearly the pick for me... he looks pretty mobile on his feet... he's like throwing spin and stuff."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Aug 1, 2022 (5 days before fight)
Zac Pauga

The MMA Guru picks Zac Pauga by third-round ground-and-pound TKO. He praises Pauga's technique and undefeated record, and criticizes Mohammed Usman's lack of commitment and poor performances. He believes Pauga's Samoan chin will allow him to take shots and break Usman down.

third round ground and pound tko
"i'm going to go zack pwaga... i'm going to see the samoan guy take a couple of big shots early put the pressure on mohammed usman and break him down"
Expert Picks (6)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Lean picked Jul 14, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Mohammed Usman

Angelo picks Mohammed Usman because he is the larger, more physically imposing fighter with a brick for a head and decent power. He notes that neither fighter is very good or entertaining, and that Usman's takedown defense should hold up against Petersen's wrestling. However, he explicitly says he cannot bet on low-level heavyweight fights, so this is a lean with no stake.

"The pick is going to be Usman though he is physically imposing he's the much larger human being here he should be able to defend some of those takedowns"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Jul 17, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Thomas Petersen

Cody picks Petersen, noting his youth (29) and wrestling pedigree. He thinks if Petersen can get takedowns, he can control Usman. He admits Usman has better striking and cardio but believes Petersen's southpaw stance and sophomore improvement could be factors. He calls it a dogger pass situation and sides with the underdog.

"I'm going Thomas Pon."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Jul 17, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Mohammed Usman

Daniel Vreeland picks Mohammed Usman, noting his improvements and ability to last three rounds. He believes Usman can defend takedowns and tire out Petersen, who gasses when his takedown game fails. Vreeland expects Usman to take over late in the fight.

"I'm gonna go with Mo Usman to win this fight"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lean picked Jul 17, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Thomas Petersen

Petersen is a slight dog at +110. He has a wrestling-heavy approach but needs to improve his striking to avoid being picked apart. Usman is not as crisp a striker as Jamal Pogues, which could allow Petersen to have more success with his wrestling. Petersen's pressure and pace should wear down Usman around the 6-minute mark, leading to a decision win. However, I need to see improvements in Petersen's striking before I'm confident enough to invest heavily.

"I need to seal the improvements in play for Peterson especially with the Striking before I can be confident enough in investing in him but as a slight dog I do think he actually ends up pulling off this uh the victory here and winning it by decision"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Jul 17, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Mohammed Usman

Paul picks Usman, citing his wrestling background, takedown defense (never taken down in UFC), and better striking. He thinks Petersen's wrestling won't be effective and that Usman will edge a decision or get a late finish. He calls the line very playable.

"I think it's Usman all day."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jul 16, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Mohammed Usman

The MMA Guru picks Mohammed Usman over Thomas Petersen, calling Petersen 'garbage' and a 'fat dum dum'. He notes Usman has knockout power and is more technical, with better conditioning and athleticism. He dismisses Petersen's size and recent loss to Jamal Poges, concluding Usman should win easily.

"Mo Usman should win this fight he's more technical he's got better conditioning he's a better athlete more power he's better than Thomas Peterson"