UFC on ESPN: Nicolau vs. Perez · Apr 27, 2024 · Lightweight · Completed
Prev Fight UFC on ESPN: Nicolau vs. Perez Next Fight
Age 34
Height 5' 10"
Reach 71.0"
Weight 155 lbs.
Stance Orthodox
Age 29
Height 5' 10"
Reach 70"
Weight 155 lbs.
Stance Orthodox
Career Averages - Austin Hubbard
3.97 SLpM
42.0% Str. Acc.
4.1 SApM
55.0% Str. Def.
1.63 TD Avg
28.0% TD Acc.
68.0% TD Def.
0.1 Sub. Avg
Career Averages - Michał Figlak
4.0 SLpM
39.0% Str. Acc.
4.93 SApM
52.0% Str. Def.
0.5 TD Avg
12.0% TD Acc.
57.0% TD Def.
0.0 Sub. Avg
Austin Hubbard - Fight History
LOSS vs Rong Zhu
Decision R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Walker vs. Zhang · Aug 23, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Rong Zhu 0 101 of 197 51% 104 of 201 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Austin Hubbard 0 75 of 226 33% 77 of 228 2 of 12 16% 0 0 1:02
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Rong Zhu 0 20 of 46 43% 21 of 47 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Austin Hubbard 0 18 of 59 30% 18 of 59 1 of 3 33% 0 0 0:29
2 Rong Zhu 0 29 of 62 46% 31 of 64 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Austin Hubbard 0 28 of 68 41% 29 of 69 1 of 3 33% 0 0 0:33
3 Rong Zhu 0 52 of 89 58% 52 of 90 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Austin Hubbard 0 29 of 99 29% 30 of 100 0 of 6 0% 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Rong Zhu 101 of 197 51% 65 of 154 21 of 28 15 of 15 98 of 189 3 of 8 0 of 0
Austin Hubbard 75 of 226 33% 43 of 169 30 of 54 2 of 3 71 of 215 4 of 10 0 of 1
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Rong Zhu 20 of 46 43% 9 of 32 1 of 4 10 of 10 19 of 43 1 of 3 0 of 0
Austin Hubbard 18 of 59 30% 10 of 46 7 of 11 1 of 2 18 of 59 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Rong Zhu 29 of 62 46% 15 of 47 11 of 12 3 of 3 27 of 57 2 of 5 0 of 0
Austin Hubbard 28 of 68 41% 13 of 48 14 of 19 1 of 1 25 of 62 3 of 6 0 of 0
3 Rong Zhu 52 of 89 58% 41 of 75 9 of 12 2 of 2 52 of 89 0 of 0 0 of 0
Austin Hubbard 29 of 99 29% 20 of 75 9 of 24 0 of 0 28 of 94 1 of 4 0 of 1
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Lean picked Aug 17, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Rong Zhu

Angelo slightly leans Rong Zhu due to his volume and striking, but is surprised by the -300 odds, calling them berserk. He notes that Austin Hubbard is gritty and decent everywhere, and just had a close loss to a very good fighter. He thinks Hubbard could make it tricky if he marches forward and fakes takedowns.

Odds are -300, which Angelo calls berserk; he thinks Austin Hubbard is not a 3-to-1 dog.
"I'm going to slightly lean wrong only because of his volume and how insane that can be. But if Austin marches forward, fakes some takedowns, things could absolutely get tricky here. I three to one favorite seems berserk in a …"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Aug 21, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Rong Zhu

Big Brady picks Rong Zhu to win by decision, citing his youth, rapid improvement, and striking power. He notes that Zhu has been working on takedown defense and anti-grappling, which will be key against Hubbard's wrestling. He believes Zhu will win a damage-based decision over 15 minutes, as Hubbard has never been knocked out.

Rong Zhu by decision
"Give me Ranju to win. I'll take him to win by decision."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Aug 21, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Rong Zhu

The host is historically higher on Hubbard than most, but thinks this is a horrible stylistic matchup for him. He doesn't think Hubbard will be able to get to his wrestling game, allowing Rong Zhu to dictate the striking and eventually land a big knockout.

win by KO/TKO
"I think this is a horrible stylistic matchup for him. I don't think he'll be able to get to his wrestling game and that should allow Ronghu to dictate the striking which is eventually going to lead to him finding …"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Hesitant picked Aug 22, 2025 (1 day before fight)
Rong Zhu

The MMA Guru picks Rong Zhu to win by 29-28 decision, but notes that he thinks Zhu is a bit of a big favorite and that there is value on Austin Hubbard. He believes Zhu is more talented and works well on the back foot, but acknowledges Hubbard could win the third round. He mentions that Zhu is young (25) and has had mixed results, including a loss to an underrated lightweight prospect.

Rong Zhu by 29-28 decision; Hubbard wins third round
"I think Ronghu is more talented... I think he should be a very slight favorite over Austin Hubbed. So there is a lot of value on Austin Hubbed here."
LOSS vs Marquel Mederos
Decision R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Moreno vs. Erceg · Mar 29, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Marquel Mederos 0 44 of 68 64% 57 of 81 0 of 1 0% 0 1 1:33
Austin Hubbard 0 26 of 65 40% 62 of 121 2 of 9 22% 1 0 7:34
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Marquel Mederos 0 23 of 35 65% 23 of 35 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Austin Hubbard 0 17 of 39 43% 19 of 41 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:50
2 Marquel Mederos 0 6 of 11 54% 6 of 11 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:05
Austin Hubbard 0 3 of 9 33% 18 of 35 1 of 2 50% 1 0 4:12
3 Marquel Mederos 0 15 of 22 68% 28 of 35 0 of 0 --- 0 1 1:28
Austin Hubbard 0 6 of 17 35% 25 of 45 1 of 4 25% 0 0 2:32
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Marquel Mederos 44 of 68 64% 21 of 41 7 of 7 16 of 20 32 of 55 4 of 4 8 of 9
Austin Hubbard 26 of 65 40% 16 of 51 6 of 9 4 of 5 22 of 60 3 of 3 1 of 2
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Marquel Mederos 23 of 35 65% 9 of 19 4 of 4 10 of 12 21 of 33 2 of 2 0 of 0
Austin Hubbard 17 of 39 43% 10 of 28 4 of 7 3 of 4 15 of 37 2 of 2 0 of 0
2 Marquel Mederos 6 of 11 54% 3 of 7 1 of 1 2 of 3 6 of 11 0 of 0 0 of 0
Austin Hubbard 3 of 9 33% 2 of 8 1 of 1 0 of 0 2 of 8 1 of 1 0 of 0
3 Marquel Mederos 15 of 22 68% 9 of 15 2 of 2 4 of 5 5 of 11 2 of 2 8 of 9
Austin Hubbard 6 of 17 35% 4 of 15 1 of 1 1 of 1 5 of 15 0 of 0 1 of 2
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Mar 27, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Marquel Mederos

Connor picks Mederos, noting his Tony Ferguson-like style of fighting in the pocket with high activity and creativity. He thinks Mederos's pressure will overwhelm Hubbard, who is reactive and lacks power. He acknowledges that Mederos's style puts him in danger but believes he can go far before a potential fall.

"I think I'm gonna pick him over Austin Hubbard. The pressure that Mederos puts on especially against something like Hubbard who invites pressure... he's gonna get hit a ton but there's a lot of ways that Mederos can kind of …"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Mar 27, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Marquel Mederos

Zane picks Mederos, agreeing that his aggressive pocket fighting will be too much for Hubbard. He notes that Hubbard's game is reactive and low-power, and that Mederos's willingness to eat a shot and come back is a key advantage. Zane thinks the matchup favors Mederos's mentality.

"I'll take Mederos too. This is not one that it would shock me if Hubbard managed to outpoint him, but I just don't like how Hubbard fights."
Decision (split) (27–30, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC 307: Pereira vs. Rountree Jr. · Oct 05, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Alexander Hernandez 0 63 of 191 32% 65 of 193 0 of 12 0% 0 0 0:05
Austin Hubbard 0 79 of 204 38% 91 of 217 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:40
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Alexander Hernandez 0 10 of 44 22% 11 of 45 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:00
Austin Hubbard 0 23 of 60 38% 23 of 60 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
2 Alexander Hernandez 0 22 of 66 33% 22 of 66 0 of 7 0% 0 0 0:05
Austin Hubbard 0 26 of 71 36% 32 of 77 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:09
3 Alexander Hernandez 0 31 of 81 38% 32 of 82 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:00
Austin Hubbard 0 30 of 73 41% 36 of 80 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:31
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Alexander Hernandez 63 of 191 32% 32 of 142 25 of 42 6 of 7 60 of 177 3 of 14 0 of 0
Austin Hubbard 79 of 204 38% 41 of 144 22 of 38 16 of 22 78 of 203 1 of 1 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Alexander Hernandez 10 of 44 22% 2 of 27 7 of 15 1 of 2 10 of 42 0 of 2 0 of 0
Austin Hubbard 23 of 60 38% 10 of 43 4 of 7 9 of 10 23 of 60 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Alexander Hernandez 22 of 66 33% 12 of 53 7 of 10 3 of 3 19 of 58 3 of 8 0 of 0
Austin Hubbard 26 of 71 36% 13 of 48 8 of 16 5 of 7 26 of 71 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Alexander Hernandez 31 of 81 38% 18 of 62 11 of 17 2 of 2 31 of 77 0 of 4 0 of 0
Austin Hubbard 30 of 73 41% 18 of 53 10 of 15 2 of 5 29 of 72 1 of 1 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Alexander Hernandez vs. Austin Hubbard
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Hernandez (-215), Hubbard (+170)

Round 1
When this lightweight affair concludes, one of these two fighters will lift their UFC records to .500 while the other will drift further in the wrong direction. Hoping this second stint courtesy of a finals appearance in TUF 31 will go swimmingly, Hubbard (16-7, 4-5 UFC) comes to blows with Texas native Hernandez (14-8, 6-7 UFC). There is no plan of a glove touch to the precede the action while referee Tyler Tomlinson watches on. Don’t worry, fight fans, ref Dave Seljestad is done for the night. He can’t hurt you anymore. Hubbard presses forward right out of the gate, pursuing Hernandez all across the cage after him. The two trade leg kicks until Hernandez lashes out with a right hand down the pipe. Hernandez tosses out a high kick that is blocked, and a right hand is not. Hubbard ducks down and directly into a right hand, and Hernandez keeps it going with a solid uppercut. Hubbard remains in front of Hernandez, but Hernandez is quicker and beats him to the punch. Hubbard jabs his foe in the chest with a kick, and Hernandez responds with a one-two. Hubbard slips back and tags “The Great Ape” with a left hook, backing Hernandez off. Hubbard chases, going for a single and then attacking up high with a kick. Even getting countered often, Hubbard remains right in front of the Texan, and he dings him with a step-in knee as Hernandez goes after a single. The knee busts Hernandez’ nose open, and a thin trickle of blood leak out of it. Hernandez pays it no mind and connects with a one-two, only for Hubbard to come back firing with a body kick. Hubbard misses a front kick by a whisker, and Hernandez’ body shot finds its home. Hubbard whiffs on a right hook and his front kick pushes off the chest, but the active Hernandez tags him with a few kicks and a left hand. Hubbard skims a right hand over the top, and Hernandez is there with two hooks that buckle Hubbard’s knees but do not send him down. “Thud” gathers his thoughts and has a thudding kick bounce off the guard. Hernandez rushes forward with a left hand and a one-two, and Hubbard barely bats an eye and instead attempts an axe kick. The horn sounds.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Hernandez
Mike Fridley scores the round: 10-9 Hernandez
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Hernandez

Round 2
Striking exchanges from both men open up the round, with both fighters landing at the end of a few successful blows. Hubbard punches his way into a takedown attempt, and Hernandez rebuffs him with ease and attacks the body. They let go with hooks at the same time, and Hernandez manages to get the better of it. Hubbard continues to maintain heavy pressure, and Hernandez beats him to the punch and drops him to his hands with a straight right hand down the pipe. Hernandez clips Hubbard with a pair of punches, and Hubbard sits down on a low kick that turns “The Great Ape” around. Hubbard drops for a single, and Hernandez manages to fight it off and hop around the cage to stay upright. Hubbard strings together a few punches into a body kick, and Hernandez swats him back with a kick to the thigh. Hernandez sneaks a high kick up, and a left hand gives Hubbard some pause, but Hubbard’s durability holds up. Going after a single, Hubbard turns the corner and takes Hernandez down to his seat from behind but cannot keep him there. Hernandez bounces back up and flashes out a few jabs. Hubbard drills him with a shovel uppercut, and he goes after a takedown, misses and blasts a leaning Hernandez in the face with a crisp knee. Hernandez appears no worse for wear from the destructive blow, and he reaches Hubbard with a left hook. Hubbard slides back and lifts up a knee, and the foot bounces into Hernandez’ cup as Hernandez does not say a word. They do not take a break, instead taking turns to throw at one another. Hernandez punches his way into a double-leg takedown, and Hubbard scoots his way to the fencing to not get taken off his feet. Hubbard breaks free and further bloodies Hernandez’ nose with a left hand. Body shots are traded from the fighters, and they crack one another with right hooks to follow. Hubbard drives forward with a body kick, and Hernandez stands firm and blasts him with a left hand at the bell.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Hernandez
Mike Fridley scores the round: 10-9 Hernandez
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Hernandez

Round 3
Fists fly almost immediately to start the last round, and Hernandez charges at Hubbard throwing hands and ending a string of strikes with a knee. Hubbard’s own nose is marked up from oncoming fire, but he is right in there readying himself for a firefight. When a Hubbard takedown is rebuffed once more, he is shoved back and does not eat a strike on the way out this time. Hernandez chains a body shot into two lunging punches, throwing himself off-balance while missing with the strikes. Hubbard catches him with a front kick, two clean punches and a spinning back kick, and Hernandez has to shake it off before responding. When Hernandez darts in, Hubbard has a right hand ready to pop him. Hubbard punches a few times, and Hernandez ducks and eats a knee flush. Hubbard stabs a front kick to the body, fails on a takedown and wings a right hand over the top. Hubbard’s front kick finds its home again, and they jab at the same time. Hernandez dodges a front kick to put a left hand in Hubbard’s face, and Hubbard sells out for a takedown he just cannot find. Hernandez circles around in hopes of taking Hubbard’s back during the attempt, and Hubbard stands and leans against the cage. The two split, and Hernandez connects with an elbow. Hubbard digs a knee to the breadbasket while Hernandez throws hammers, and “Thud” knocks his head around with a combo of hooks. Hubbard’s front kick lands cleanly again, and he hurts Hernandez with another short flurry. Hernandez bites down on his mouthpiece and throws back hard, and they slug it out with punches, kicks, knees and a spinning kick for good measure. The round ends as they go for broke, blood flowing out of Hernandez’ face from numerous clean connects.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Hubbard (29-28 Hernandez)
Mike Fridley scores the round: 10-9 Hubbard (29-28 Hernandez)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Hubbard (29-28 Hernandez)

The Official Result
Alexander Hernandez def. Austin Hubbard via Split Decision (27-30, 29-28, 29-28)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Lean picked Sep 29, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Alexander Hernandez

Angelo picks Alexander Hernandez, acknowledging his talent but inconsistency. He notes Hernandez has all the tools but often makes poor decisions. He believes this matchup allows Hernandez to be himself, but he is not confident enough to bet on Hernandez as a favorite. He would only bet if Hernandez is an underdog.

Would only bet if Hernandez is an underdog
"I'm picking Alexander Hernandez here... I am not going to bet on him as a favorite"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Oct 3, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Austin Hubbard

Big Brady picks Austin Hubbard as a live dog, citing Hernandez's poor cardio, lack of heart, and short-notice fight at elevation. He expects Hernandez to win the first round but fade, while Hubbard's toughness and cardio will allow him to take over and win a decision, possibly with a late finish.

"I like Hubbert here as a dog I'm going to pick him to win this fight by decision but I wouldn't rule out like a late finish because Hernandez just crumbles time and time again at elevation short notice um …"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Oct 2, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Austin Hubbard

Cody picks Hubbard, citing Hernandez's inconsistency and cardio issues. He notes Hubbard's toughness and experience at altitude, believing Hubbard can outlast Hernandez and win a decision or late finish.

"I think I'm gonna take hubard"
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Hesitant picked Oct 4, 2024 (1 day before fight)
Alexander Hernandez

Connor picks Hernandez despite his confidence issues, noting that Hernandez has the physical tools to win. He points out that Hubbard is a talentless bully who only wins by being more physical, and Hernandez has the speed and power to overwhelm him. However, he acknowledges the altitude and short notice could be factors.

"I'm going to take Hernandez though. I'm going to take Hernandez to any, any fight where it seems even remotely possible that Hernandez could win it by mistake."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Hesitant picked Oct 1, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Austin Hubbard

Daniel Vreeland hesitantly picks Austin Hubbard, despite calling him 'harmless Hubbard.' He dislikes Alexander Hernandez, calling him a fraud and a bust. Vreeland notes that Hernandez has lost four of his last five and that Hubbard is durable and has shown output. He is not confident but refuses to bet on Hernandez.

"I'm going hubard here not confidently because how can you be confident in and harmless hubard"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lean picked Oct 4, 2024 (1 day before fight)
Alexander Hernandez

The host leans with the physicality and explosiveness of Alexander Hernandez, believing he will land better shots, defend Hubbard's grappling, and eventually find a knockout in the second or third round. He notes both fighters are from Colorado but gives the edge to Hernandez.

"I do have to lean with the physicality and explosiveness of Alexander Hernandez which should allow him to land better shots defend the grappling of hubard and eventually find a Knockout in the second or third round"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Oct 2, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Austin Hubbard

Paul picks Hubbard, agreeing with Cody about Hernandez's cardio and durability. He thinks Hubbard's pressure and altitude advantage will be key. He expects Hubbard to win by decision or submission.

"hubard will be the pick for me"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Lean picked Oct 1, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Alexander Hernandez

The MMA Guru picks Alexander Hernandez after flipping a bottle of mayonnaise, which landed on Hernandez's side. He acknowledges Hernandez is better at lightweight and dangerous, but worries about altitude and Hernandez's tendency to gas out. He notes Hubbard trains at elevation but believes Hernandez's lightweight performances are superior. He predicts a TKO early in the fight.

"We're going with Alexander Hernandez here over Austin hubard TKO early in the fight"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Hesitant picked Oct 4, 2024 (1 day before fight)
Austin Hubbard

Zane picks Hubbard, citing the altitude and Hernandez's short notice as key factors. He notes that Hernandez has confidence problems and may struggle with the weight cut and altitude. Hubbard is a big strong guy who can grind out a decision if he imposes his physicality.

"I'm going to pick Hubbard with this fight being at altitude, and Hernandez coming in on short notice with his confidence problems."
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC on ESPN: Nicolau vs. Perez · Apr 27, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Austin Hubbard 0 88 of 206 42% 99 of 220 3 of 7 42% 0 0 0:48
Michał Figlak 0 92 of 210 43% 100 of 218 0 of 3 0% 0 0 1:37
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Austin Hubbard 0 19 of 57 33% 27 of 67 1 of 2 50% 0 0 0:18
Michał Figlak 0 26 of 59 44% 27 of 60 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Austin Hubbard 0 37 of 85 43% 37 of 86 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:00
Michał Figlak 0 30 of 81 37% 30 of 81 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:21
3 Austin Hubbard 0 32 of 64 50% 35 of 67 2 of 3 66% 0 0 0:30
Michał Figlak 0 36 of 70 51% 43 of 77 0 of 3 0% 0 0 1:16
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Austin Hubbard 88 of 206 42% 55 of 162 22 of 29 11 of 15 85 of 203 3 of 3 0 of 0
Michał Figlak 92 of 210 43% 60 of 173 16 of 19 16 of 18 88 of 204 4 of 6 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Austin Hubbard 19 of 57 33% 11 of 45 3 of 5 5 of 7 18 of 56 1 of 1 0 of 0
Michał Figlak 26 of 59 44% 15 of 47 4 of 5 7 of 7 26 of 59 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Austin Hubbard 37 of 85 43% 23 of 65 11 of 15 3 of 5 37 of 85 0 of 0 0 of 0
Michał Figlak 30 of 81 37% 18 of 68 6 of 7 6 of 6 30 of 81 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Austin Hubbard 32 of 64 50% 21 of 52 8 of 9 3 of 3 30 of 62 2 of 2 0 of 0
Michał Figlak 36 of 70 51% 27 of 58 6 of 7 3 of 5 32 of 64 4 of 6 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Apr 21, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Michał Figlak

Angelo has a half-unit bet on Michał Figlak at -125, beating the line movement. He thinks Figlak is the much better and more dangerous fighter, with powerful striking and solid wrestling used defensively. He worries about Figlak's two-year layoff, noting that strikers with long layoffs often struggle to find rhythm. However, he believes Figlak's talent outweighs the risk at the current odds, though he cautions if Figlak reaches -170 or higher the layoff becomes too risky.

Bet: 0.5 units at -125
"I think mall figl is the much better fighter in this matchup certainly the more dangerous guy ... I'm on him I have a half a unit on him at minus 125"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Apr 24, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Michał Figlak

Cody picks Figlak, believing he will show improvement after a poor debut. He likes Figlak's pressure style and volume, and thinks Hubbard is a warm body with no standout skills. He expects Figlak to win by decision or late finish.

"sign me up for the minus 170 favorite here"
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Apr 24, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Michał Figlak

Daniel calls Hubbard 'harmless Hubbard' – durable but not a finisher. He thinks Figlak has had two years to improve and has the physicality and takedown defense to outwork Hubbard. He predicts Figlak by decision, noting Hubbard's lack of threat.

by decision
"I'm going figl by decision here"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Apr 26, 2024 (1 day before fight)
Austin Hubbard

Hubbard has a wrestling and grappling advantage and should be able to dictate the pace, take Figlak down, and grind him out from top position. Figlak struggled against a striker in his UFC debut and may not have the resistance to stop Hubbard's pressure. Hubbard wins on the scorecards.

"I think the more experienced fighter here in Austin hubard and the style that he brings to the table with his wrestling and uh mixing his wrestling behind and striking will cause figl some issues once again and that will …"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Apr 24, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Michał Figlak

Paul also picks Figlak, citing his potential and Hubbard's limited ceiling. He notes Figlak's youth and room for growth, and believes the 16-month layoff will help him. He is worried about Hubbard's wrestling but trusts Figlak's improvements.

"I'm on team figl will he let me down again we'll have to find out"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Apr 23, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Michał Figlak

The MMA Guru picks Michał Figlak, noting he has been high on him for a long time. He mentions Figlak's training at Renegades with Leon Edwards and Arnold Allen, and his unrelenting pressure. He criticizes Austin Hubbard for looking awful against Kurt Holobaugh and beating low-level competition. He predicts Figlak will finish Hubbard with body shots to head shots in the late second or third round.

finish in late second or third round
"I'm going to go with maau figl I think he's a more technically sound fighter"
LOSS vs Kurt Holobaugh
Submission (triangle choke) R2 2:39 · UFC 292: Sterling vs. O'Malley · Aug 19, 2023
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Kurt Holobaugh 0 61 of 119 51% 85 of 144 0 of 0 --- 2 0 1:08
Austin Hubbard 0 44 of 107 41% 61 of 125 2 of 6 33% 0 0 2:23
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Kurt Holobaugh 0 37 of 78 47% 58 of 100 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Austin Hubbard 0 31 of 74 41% 48 of 92 2 of 4 50% 0 0 2:06
2 Kurt Holobaugh 0 24 of 41 58% 27 of 44 0 of 0 --- 2 0 1:08
Austin Hubbard 0 13 of 33 39% 13 of 33 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:17
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Kurt Holobaugh 61 of 119 51% 46 of 101 10 of 12 5 of 6 50 of 106 9 of 10 2 of 3
Austin Hubbard 44 of 107 41% 25 of 86 17 of 19 2 of 2 31 of 87 9 of 12 4 of 8
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Kurt Holobaugh 37 of 78 47% 26 of 64 6 of 8 5 of 6 30 of 71 7 of 7 0 of 0
Austin Hubbard 31 of 74 41% 16 of 58 14 of 15 1 of 1 20 of 57 7 of 9 4 of 8
2 Kurt Holobaugh 24 of 41 58% 20 of 37 4 of 4 0 of 0 20 of 35 2 of 3 2 of 3
Austin Hubbard 13 of 33 39% 9 of 28 3 of 4 1 of 1 11 of 30 2 of 3 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Aug 13, 2023 (6 days before fight)
Kurt Holobaugh

Angelo likes Kurt Holobaugh as an underdog despite his 0-6 UFC record, noting that his losses were to top competition like Thiago Moises, Shane Burgos, and Humberto Bandenay. He believes Holobaugh's striking combinations and power will be too much for Austin Hubbard, though he acknowledges Hubbard's chin and takedown ability as concerns. He expects Holobaugh to win and become the Ultimate Fighter champion.

"I do like Kurt as the underdog here... I do think Kurt's striking combinations and power are going to be too much for Austin."
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Aug 15, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Kurt Holobaugh

Cody likes Holobaugh's momentum from The Ultimate Fighter, his durability, and power. He thinks Hubbard is a volume pressure fighter but Holobaugh has a chip on his shoulder and nothing to lose. He picks Holobaugh as an underdog to win a decision or late finish.

"I will take the underdog shot here on Kurt Hall about to get the job done"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Lean picked Aug 17, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Austin Hubbard

Daniel Levi picks Austin Hubbard to do his typical thing, turning the fight into a sparring match and not taking risks. He notes that Hubbard is hard to finish and has survived bad spots against high-level grapplers. However, Levi is not laying the price and calls it a dog-or-pass situation. He prefers the over and Holobaugh decision props.

Goes the distance minus 130; Holobaugh decision plus 400
"Pure pick I'll go Hubbard to do his typical thing but I'm not laying this price on him"
LU
Lucrative James Expert Lean picked Aug 18, 2023 (1 day before fight)
Kurt Holobaugh

Lucrative James sees value on Kurt Holobaugh as an underdog, believing the fight should be a pick'em. He notes Holobaugh has more finishing threat and has faced better competition, while Austin Hubbard relies on toughness and volume but lacks major skills. However, he acknowledges Holobaugh's age (36) and potential to be out-volumed.

"I think there's value on the dog again Kurt holliber"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Aug 15, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Austin Hubbard

Hubbard has added wrinkles to his game, mixing striking with takedowns. He should be competitive on the feet and then use his wrestling to grind out Holobaugh, who struggles with defensive grappling. Hubbard's kicks and range control will set up takedowns. The line has moved to a reasonable -160/-170 range, making him a good play.

"I'm more than happy to take a shot on him at that point as I believe he grinds this fight out has the better grappling here offensively speaking and that should allow him to pick up a decision Victory"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Aug 14, 2023 (5 days before fight)
Austin Hubbard

The MMA Guru picks Austin Hubbard over Kurt Holobaugh. He acknowledges Holobaugh's pocket boxing skills but believes Hubbard's straight punches, front kicks, and low kicks will keep him from standing in the pocket. Hubbard also has offensive grappling and excellent takedown defense, allowing him to dictate where the fight takes place. The Guru sees Hubbard's versatility as too much for Holobaugh.

"I'm gonna go with Austin Hubbard over Kurt hollabaugh"
LOSS vs Vinc Pichel
Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 30–27) R3 5:00 · UFC on ESPN: Cannonier vs. Gastelum · Aug 21, 2021
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Vinc Pichel 0 71 of 160 44% 96 of 187 0 of 4 0% 0 0 2:29
Austin Hubbard 0 56 of 152 36% 66 of 171 4 of 7 57% 0 0 2:14
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Vinc Pichel 0 21 of 55 38% 27 of 61 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:13
Austin Hubbard 0 22 of 58 37% 24 of 61 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:10
2 Vinc Pichel 0 27 of 63 42% 34 of 70 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:08
Austin Hubbard 0 19 of 52 36% 24 of 58 2 of 3 66% 0 0 0:51
3 Vinc Pichel 0 23 of 42 54% 35 of 56 0 of 1 0% 0 0 2:08
Austin Hubbard 0 15 of 42 35% 18 of 52 2 of 4 50% 0 0 1:13
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Vinc Pichel 71 of 160 44% 28 of 108 16 of 23 27 of 29 59 of 145 10 of 12 2 of 3
Austin Hubbard 56 of 152 36% 29 of 110 17 of 31 10 of 11 51 of 145 4 of 6 1 of 1
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Vinc Pichel 21 of 55 38% 4 of 34 5 of 8 12 of 13 20 of 54 1 of 1 0 of 0
Austin Hubbard 22 of 58 37% 9 of 38 8 of 15 5 of 5 22 of 58 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Vinc Pichel 27 of 63 42% 11 of 44 8 of 10 8 of 9 24 of 59 3 of 4 0 of 0
Austin Hubbard 19 of 52 36% 10 of 36 5 of 11 4 of 5 16 of 49 3 of 3 0 of 0
3 Vinc Pichel 23 of 42 54% 13 of 30 3 of 5 7 of 7 15 of 32 6 of 7 2 of 3
Austin Hubbard 15 of 42 35% 10 of 36 4 of 5 1 of 1 13 of 38 1 of 3 1 of 1
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Aug 17, 2021 (4 days before fight)
Vinc Pichel

Big Brady picks Vinc Pichel, citing his grappling advantage. He notes Pichel averages 3.83 takedowns per 15 minutes with 60% accuracy, and believes he will win the grappling exchanges. He is concerned about Pichel's age (38) but thinks his gas tank is fine. He predicts a decision win.

"i'm going to take vince michelle to win i think he's going to win the grappling exchanges"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Aug 18, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Vinc Pichel

Cody picks Pichel, having already bet him. He highlights Pichel's cardio, top control, and BJJ black belt, and notes Hubbard's tendency to fade in later rounds. He believes Pichel's wrestling and pressure will be key, and mentions the value on Pichel by submission at 20-1.

Pichel by submission 20-1 (DraftKings); also +575 at another book
"i've already made a bet on it... i think we see a lot of cage control for vince i think we see a lot of you know pushing forward hopefully the takedowns are there"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Aug 18, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Vinc Pichel

Pichel is a grappler who should have success taking Hubbard down, especially by catching Hubbard's kicks. Hubbard has only fought grapplers recently and has struggled. Pichel's age (38) is a concern but he has low fight mileage. I'm picking Pichel by decision, but the moneyline at even odds is fine.

Pichel by decision (+140)
"i do like vince michelle on the spot don't look too hard at that 38 year old uh spot that he's at right now fight mouse is not that high"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Aug 18, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Vinc Pichel

Paul picks Pichel, citing his strong top game and ability to grind out wins. He notes Pichel's slow starts but finishing strong, and Hubbard's susceptibility to takedowns. He mentions Pichel's training at Factory X and believes his cardio will hold up.

Pichel by submission 20-1 is egregious, worth a sprinkle
"i'm gonna have faith in my boy he hasn't done you wrong so far and i do think he's live in the spot"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Aug 15, 2021 (6 days before fight)
Austin Hubbard

The MMA Guru picks Austin Hubbard as an underdog. He cites Hubbard's takedown defense and volume striking as keys. He notes Pichel is 38 and coming off a year layoff, while Hubbard is younger and has shown improvement. He expects Hubbard to win the later rounds via decision, possibly 29-28.

"i'm gonna go with austin hubbard over vince pacquiao in all honesty"
WIN vs Dakota Bush
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC on ESPN: Whittaker vs. Gastelum · Apr 17, 2021
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Austin Hubbard 0 67 of 115 58% 126 of 181 1 of 1 100% 0 2 6:42
Dakota Bush 0 41 of 104 39% 54 of 122 1 of 6 16% 0 1 1:31
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Austin Hubbard 0 34 of 65 52% 34 of 65 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:02
Dakota Bush 0 30 of 73 41% 30 of 73 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Austin Hubbard 0 13 of 22 59% 30 of 42 0 of 0 --- 0 0 3:21
Dakota Bush 0 7 of 15 46% 16 of 26 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:33
3 Austin Hubbard 0 20 of 28 71% 62 of 74 0 of 0 --- 0 2 3:19
Dakota Bush 0 4 of 16 25% 8 of 23 1 of 4 25% 0 1 0:58
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Austin Hubbard 67 of 115 58% 32 of 76 10 of 12 25 of 27 49 of 91 2 of 3 16 of 21
Dakota Bush 41 of 104 39% 17 of 59 6 of 20 18 of 25 41 of 104 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Austin Hubbard 34 of 65 52% 11 of 38 4 of 6 19 of 21 32 of 63 2 of 2 0 of 0
Dakota Bush 30 of 73 41% 10 of 37 4 of 15 16 of 21 30 of 73 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Austin Hubbard 13 of 22 59% 7 of 16 3 of 3 3 of 3 8 of 15 0 of 0 5 of 7
Dakota Bush 7 of 15 46% 3 of 8 2 of 4 2 of 3 7 of 15 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Austin Hubbard 20 of 28 71% 14 of 22 3 of 3 3 of 3 9 of 13 0 of 1 11 of 14
Dakota Bush 4 of 16 25% 4 of 14 0 of 1 0 of 1 4 of 16 0 of 0 0 of 0
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Apr 15, 2021 (2 days before fight)
Austin Hubbard

Big Brady picks Austin Hubbard to win by decision. He notes that Bush is coming in on short notice and that Hubbard has faced tough grapplers throughout his UFC career, which should prepare him for Bush's wrestling. He believes Hubbard has superior cardio and toughness, and can survive Bush's early storm. He expects Hubbard to take over in rounds 2 and 3, possibly with a late finish. He is not surprised by the close odds but thinks Hubbard should be a bigger favorite.

"i'm going to take austin hubbard to win by a decision"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Apr 14, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Austin Hubbard

Cody thinks Hubbard has proven cardio and the ability to break down wrestlers. He notes that Bush is taking the fight on short notice and is not as good a wrestler as Hubbard's previous opponents. He expects Hubbard to stuff takedowns, pressure Bush, and win by decision or late finish. He is confident in Hubbard.

Hubbard by decision or third round finish
"hubbard eventually finds the way breaks him down either takes a decision or takes one of these third round finishes"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Lean picked Apr 16, 2021 (1 day before fight)
Dakota Bush

Daniel Levi picks Dakota Bush for the upset, citing his power and momentum. He notes that Bush is taking the fight on short notice, which is a concern, but believes Bush is the more dangerous fighter and could steamroll Hubbard early. Levi mentions that Hubbard is average and has not shown much, while Bush has fought real competition. He thinks the line should be closer and that Bush has a good chance if he is in shape.

upset
"i'm going to i'm going to take dakota bush for the upset"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lean picked Apr 16, 2021 (1 day before fight)
Dakota Bush

Manpreet leans toward Bush by decision, citing his college wrestling background and Hubbard's history of struggling against grapplers. He believes Bush will take Hubbard down repeatedly and control the fight on the ground, despite coming in on short notice. He notes that Hubbard's takedown defense has been poor against wrestlers and that Bush has never been finished.

Bush by decision +485; over 2.5 rounds -175
"i do favor dakota bush here and i think he's actually grind this fight out and one of your decisions so uh the over two and a half minus 175 not a bad spot"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Apr 14, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Austin Hubbard

Paul agrees with Cody, noting that Hubbard has faced tough wrestlers and performed well. He thinks Bush is a step down in competition and that Hubbard's cardio and pressure will be too much. He is confident in Hubbard winning.

"i think hubbard is he's 29 years old he's 5 10 which is decent he's got a good frame for the weight class and he just keeps chugging along"
LOSS vs Joe Solecki
Submission (rear-naked choke) R1 3:51 · UFC on ESPN: Munhoz vs. Edgar · Aug 22, 2020
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Joe Solecki 0 9 of 14 64% 9 of 14 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Austin Hubbard 0 13 of 20 65% 36 of 43 0 of 2 0% 1 0 2:37
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Joe Solecki 0 9 of 14 64% 9 of 14 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Austin Hubbard 0 13 of 20 65% 36 of 43 0 of 2 0% 1 0 2:37
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Joe Solecki 9 of 14 64% 2 of 5 4 of 5 3 of 4 6 of 11 3 of 3 0 of 0
Austin Hubbard 13 of 20 65% 8 of 15 2 of 2 3 of 3 9 of 16 4 of 4 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Joe Solecki 9 of 14 64% 2 of 5 4 of 5 3 of 4 6 of 11 3 of 3 0 of 0
Austin Hubbard 13 of 20 65% 8 of 15 2 of 2 3 of 3 9 of 16 4 of 4 0 of 0
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Aug 20, 2020 (2 days before fight)
Joe Solecki

Big Brady picks Joe Solecki to win by decision. He notes Hubbard has poor takedown defense (40%) and has been taken down by everyone in the UFC. Solecki has good wrestling and is slick on the ground with transitions to the back. On the feet, Hubbard has the advantage, but Brady expects Solecki to go for takedowns early and control the fight, provided his cardio holds up. He mentions Hubbard's win over Max Rohskopf is overrated because Rohskopf had only one round of gas.

"i gotta go to lucky here i think he's going to not mess around with the feet i think he's going to go for takedowns right away and as long as this gas tank holds up i think he's going …"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Aug 22, 2020 (fight day)
Joe Solecki

Daniel Levi picks Joe Solecki to win, citing his high-level jiu-jitsu and control on the ground. He notes that Solecki's takedowns may not be elite but he can get the fight to the mat, and Hubbard has been outgrappled before. Levi acknowledges Hubbard's improved conditioning and volume striking but believes Solecki will get takedowns early, build a lead, and survive the third round. He mentions Solecki's dominant performance against Matt Wyman as evidence.

"i'm gonna go with select you for the win i think he uh just gets more takedowns and you know probably controls him takes his back for a round and gets off to a big lead and gets the win"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Hesitant picked Aug 20, 2020 (2 days before fight)
Joe Solecki

Solecki has great wrestling and jiu-jitsu, but his cardio and ability to finish are questionable. Hubbard has good leg kicks, cardio, and takedown defense, having survived wrestlers like Marco Madsen. Solecki should grind out a decision if he can maintain top control, but Hubbard's gas tank and striking could make it close. I'm pumping the brakes on Solecki until he proves more.

"i am going to pick him to win this fight because i do think he has a ton of potential"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Aug 17, 2020 (5 days before fight)
Austin Hubbard

The MMA Guru picks Austin Hubbard, citing his counter-grappling skills and takedown defense as seen in the Mark Madsen fight. He believes Hubbard can avoid submissions and reverse positions, eventually breaking Solecki down for a third-round TKO. He also notes Hubbard's reach advantage and that he should be the favorite.

third round tko
"i'm picking austin hubbard to win great counter grappling i think he can avoid the submissions"
Michał Figlak - Fight History
LOSS vs Austin Hubbard
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC on ESPN: Nicolau vs. Perez · Apr 27, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Austin Hubbard 0 88 of 206 42% 99 of 220 3 of 7 42% 0 0 0:48
Michał Figlak 0 92 of 210 43% 100 of 218 0 of 3 0% 0 0 1:37
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Austin Hubbard 0 19 of 57 33% 27 of 67 1 of 2 50% 0 0 0:18
Michał Figlak 0 26 of 59 44% 27 of 60 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Austin Hubbard 0 37 of 85 43% 37 of 86 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:00
Michał Figlak 0 30 of 81 37% 30 of 81 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:21
3 Austin Hubbard 0 32 of 64 50% 35 of 67 2 of 3 66% 0 0 0:30
Michał Figlak 0 36 of 70 51% 43 of 77 0 of 3 0% 0 0 1:16
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Austin Hubbard 88 of 206 42% 55 of 162 22 of 29 11 of 15 85 of 203 3 of 3 0 of 0
Michał Figlak 92 of 210 43% 60 of 173 16 of 19 16 of 18 88 of 204 4 of 6 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Austin Hubbard 19 of 57 33% 11 of 45 3 of 5 5 of 7 18 of 56 1 of 1 0 of 0
Michał Figlak 26 of 59 44% 15 of 47 4 of 5 7 of 7 26 of 59 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Austin Hubbard 37 of 85 43% 23 of 65 11 of 15 3 of 5 37 of 85 0 of 0 0 of 0
Michał Figlak 30 of 81 37% 18 of 68 6 of 7 6 of 6 30 of 81 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Austin Hubbard 32 of 64 50% 21 of 52 8 of 9 3 of 3 30 of 62 2 of 2 0 of 0
Michał Figlak 36 of 70 51% 27 of 58 6 of 7 3 of 5 32 of 64 4 of 6 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Apr 21, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Michał Figlak

Angelo has a half-unit bet on Michał Figlak at -125, beating the line movement. He thinks Figlak is the much better and more dangerous fighter, with powerful striking and solid wrestling used defensively. He worries about Figlak's two-year layoff, noting that strikers with long layoffs often struggle to find rhythm. However, he believes Figlak's talent outweighs the risk at the current odds, though he cautions if Figlak reaches -170 or higher the layoff becomes too risky.

Bet: 0.5 units at -125
"I think mall figl is the much better fighter in this matchup certainly the more dangerous guy ... I'm on him I have a half a unit on him at minus 125"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Apr 24, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Michał Figlak

Cody picks Figlak, believing he will show improvement after a poor debut. He likes Figlak's pressure style and volume, and thinks Hubbard is a warm body with no standout skills. He expects Figlak to win by decision or late finish.

"sign me up for the minus 170 favorite here"
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Apr 24, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Michał Figlak

Daniel calls Hubbard 'harmless Hubbard' – durable but not a finisher. He thinks Figlak has had two years to improve and has the physicality and takedown defense to outwork Hubbard. He predicts Figlak by decision, noting Hubbard's lack of threat.

by decision
"I'm going figl by decision here"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Apr 26, 2024 (1 day before fight)
Austin Hubbard

Hubbard has a wrestling and grappling advantage and should be able to dictate the pace, take Figlak down, and grind him out from top position. Figlak struggled against a striker in his UFC debut and may not have the resistance to stop Hubbard's pressure. Hubbard wins on the scorecards.

"I think the more experienced fighter here in Austin hubard and the style that he brings to the table with his wrestling and uh mixing his wrestling behind and striking will cause figl some issues once again and that will …"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Apr 24, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Michał Figlak

Paul also picks Figlak, citing his potential and Hubbard's limited ceiling. He notes Figlak's youth and room for growth, and believes the 16-month layoff will help him. He is worried about Hubbard's wrestling but trusts Figlak's improvements.

"I'm on team figl will he let me down again we'll have to find out"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Apr 23, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Michał Figlak

The MMA Guru picks Michał Figlak, noting he has been high on him for a long time. He mentions Figlak's training at Renegades with Leon Edwards and Arnold Allen, and his unrelenting pressure. He criticizes Austin Hubbard for looking awful against Kurt Holobaugh and beating low-level competition. He predicts Figlak will finish Hubbard with body shots to head shots in the late second or third round.

finish in late second or third round
"I'm going to go with maau figl I think he's a more technically sound fighter"
LOSS vs Farès Ziam
Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Gane vs. Tuivasa · Sep 03, 2022
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Farès Ziam 0 60 of 108 55% 111 of 162 3 of 7 42% 0 1 6:48
Michał Figlak 0 28 of 96 29% 55 of 126 1 of 5 20% 0 0 1:35
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Farès Ziam 0 24 of 39 61% 32 of 47 1 of 2 50% 0 0 1:25
Michał Figlak 0 15 of 46 32% 25 of 56 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:41
2 Farès Ziam 0 19 of 42 45% 49 of 75 1 of 2 50% 0 0 3:23
Michał Figlak 0 5 of 20 25% 15 of 31 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:17
3 Farès Ziam 0 17 of 27 62% 30 of 40 1 of 3 33% 0 1 2:00
Michał Figlak 0 8 of 30 26% 15 of 39 1 of 2 50% 0 0 0:37
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Farès Ziam 60 of 108 55% 34 of 81 13 of 14 13 of 13 45 of 78 2 of 3 13 of 27
Michał Figlak 28 of 96 29% 13 of 74 9 of 16 6 of 6 25 of 88 0 of 1 3 of 7
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Farès Ziam 24 of 39 61% 11 of 25 7 of 8 6 of 6 21 of 34 2 of 2 1 of 3
Michał Figlak 15 of 46 32% 5 of 35 6 of 7 4 of 4 15 of 46 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Farès Ziam 19 of 42 45% 13 of 36 4 of 4 2 of 2 12 of 24 0 of 0 7 of 18
Michał Figlak 5 of 20 25% 1 of 12 2 of 6 2 of 2 5 of 20 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Farès Ziam 17 of 27 62% 10 of 20 2 of 2 5 of 5 12 of 20 0 of 1 5 of 6
Michał Figlak 8 of 30 26% 7 of 27 1 of 3 0 of 0 5 of 22 0 of 1 3 of 7
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Michal Figlak vs. Fares Ziam
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Figlak (-195), Ziam (+165)

Round 1
For the second fight in a row, a home country fighter will be representing France against an opponent from a distant land. Unlike Brazil for Miranda, Ziam (12-4, 2-2 UFC) will take on someone from just a few countries east in Europe. Making his debut after an impressive run in Cage Warriors that ended before he could vie for the 155-pound strap, the unbeaten Figlak (8-0, 0-0 UFC), born in Poland but repping England, has been plucked out of that league and into the majors. As a result, Ziam is the only betting underdog of the five men out of France today. Ziam offers a glove touch under the watchful eye of referee Rich Mitchell, but Figlak has no interest and lets the fingers brush off his forearm. Figlak wants to fight, and he comes out pressing forward. Ziam is on his bike early, with Figlak aggressive and throwing hands at him in high intensity. Ziam manages in kickboxing range, with low kicks and jabs, trying take advantage of his range while staying on the outside. “Smile Killer” kills Figlak’s smile with a heavy low kick that bends the knee of his opponent, and Figlak crashes forward only to get popped with a left hook. Ziam follows it with another hard low kick, prompting Figlak to press in for a body lock takedown. Ziam spins him around and dumps Figlak to the mat, where he lands right in side control. The British-based fighter powers his way up to his seat and considers a counter takedown, but it is all so that he can stand back up. Ziam strikes first with his feet when the two are upright again, ripping a low kick on the calf and swinging one to the ribs. Figlak punches his way in with an overhand right, and a left to the body that makes Ziam cough. The unbeaten debutant ignores a few quick left hands so that he can rush in, and Ziam meets him with a standing elbow. Figlak spins with a back elbow that glances off his intended target, and his forward momentum pushes the two up to the wall. They jockey for position, trading knees up against the wire, and Ziam looks to change levels and lift Figlak’s right leg for a single. Figlak keeps his balance, and he stops a trip attempt from the body lock of his opponent. Mitchell tells them to keep fighting as they jockey for position, and as Ziam goes for a throw, they both land on their knees. Figlak counters, only to get tossed to his back. Figlak closes his guard, takes an elbow on the dome that cuts him open on the hairline, and he sets up an armbar with seconds to spare. Ziam rolls all the way through it, fights off a subsequent kimura try, turns to his side and stands up. He takes an upkick on the chest at the bell, and Mitchell leaps in between them so nothing more comes of it.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Ziam
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Ziam
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Ziam

Round 2
The second round opens with a brief slugfest, as Figlak hopes to start out hot, and Ziam throws cold water on him with a tie-up in the middle of the cage. As Figlak swings for the fences after the break, Ziam targets the body with a kick and a left hand over the top. Figlak responds with a pair of heavy punches that shake the Frenchman up, and Ziam responds with a takedown effort. Ziam lifts Figlak all the way up in the air and slams him down, and as soon as Figlak hits the mat, he snatches the leg and starts fishing for a leglock. The attempts force Ziam to stand back up and reconsider his posture, where he ends up lowering himself back into the guard and easily moving to half guard. Ziam starts working the body from this position, and Figlak sits up as a trickle of blood flows from the bridge of his nose into his right eye. Figlak stays active from his back, hunting for armbars or any kind of submission that keeps Ziam honest, and he manages to drag Ziam back to his guard. “Mad Dog” explodes against the wall, using it to stand back up, and he is ready to trade leather. Figlak walks forward fearlessly to throw hands, and Ziam backs up to the wall and gets clipped with a right hand. Ziam meets him with a knee up the middle, and Figlak drops down to go after a single. Ziam slides his leg out and looks for separation, only for Figlak to chase him to the wall and try to trip him. Out of nowhere, Ziam spins with a back elbow on the temple that rocks the undefeated fighter badly. Figlak wobbles back to the wall, and Ziam bowls him over and starts blasting him with ground-and-pound. Figlak uses his offensive guard to keep Ziam at bay on the mat from anything that could set up a finish, but he can only hold on so long before Ziam shifts into full mount. Time is Ziam’s enemy in this exchange, as he slides off the side and looks for a choke of some kind. There is nothing there before the round ends.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Ziam
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Ziam
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Ziam

Round 3
Ziam opens the final round with several heavy low kicks one after the other, forcing a limp out of the debuting fighter. Ziam sees this and targets it again, and the punches in response from Figlak have a lot less sting on them now. One such powerful kick forces a stance switch out of Figlak, and Ziam does not mind and he kicks the back leg multiple times. As Ziam moves forward, seeing his man is compromised, Figlak meets him in the middle and decides to grab hold of a standing guillotine choke. There is nothing to this, so he ignores a few punches to hit a double. Ziam wall-walks up to his feet before long, and the crowd is thrilled that they are back on the feet again. Figlak slips a punch and clinches up, and Ziam pushes him off and sticks out a jab. Figlak again goes for a body lock, and Ziam is having none of it. Figlak is still in the southpaw stance as a result of the damage absorbed on his left leg, and he cannot plant fully when trying to take Ziam down again. Ziam turns the tables on him, scooping the unbeaten man up and tossing him down to the canvas. Figlak tightly closes his guard, only to suddenly roll for an armbar as Ziam postures up to aim punches from above. Ziam sees it coming and pushes off, and he ends up standing back up. Figlak follows him up, and Ziam cannot take advantage of this position. Figlak shoots for a takedown, and he grounds Ziam and instantly moves to full mount. With sheer strength, the Frenchman reverses Figlak by lifting him off of him and tossing him to the back. Ziam, in half guard, uses shoulder pressure and flirts with an arm-triangle choke, but is more intent on passing to the side. Ziam tries a two-on-one wrist lock to keep him down, but elects to start pounding on Figlak instead. Figlak throws his legs up in desperation for an armbar, and he sits up and dives for a single. Time expires as Ziam is smacking Figlak upside the head, and the underdog Frenchman appears to have scored a significant upset and handed Figlak his first career defeat, all to the delight of a partisan crowd.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Ziam (30-27 Ziam)
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Ziam (30-27 Ziam)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Ziam (30-27 Ziam)

The Official Result
Fares Ziam def. Michal Figlak via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Aug 27, 2022 (7 days before fight)

Angelo picks Michal Figlak because he expects Figlak to transition to wrestling after getting touched up on the feet, winning a decision. He notes Ziam is a technical striker but lacks power, so he will pot shot his way to a decision if Figlak doesn't wrestle. He thinks Figlak's wrestling will be the difference.

"i see fig lack winning a decision but if he does not transition to that wrestling he can be outstruck"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Aug 31, 2022 (3 days before fight)

Big Brady picks Michal Figlak to win by decision. He argues that Figlak's pressure and forward-moving style will give Ziam problems, as Ziam struggles when pressured and prefers to fight on the outside. He also notes Figlak can mix in takedowns. He expects a close fight on the feet but Figlak's pressure and occasional takedowns will earn him the win.

"i like fig lack here i like fig lack to win by decision"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Aug 31, 2022 (3 days before fight)

Cody picks Michal Figlak, praising his constant pressure, boxing combinations, body work, and wrestling. He notes that Figlak is a strong Polish fighter with good cardio and a dogged style. Farès Ziam, on the other hand, has low striking volume (2.06 strikes per minute), poor takedown defense, and has been cut from the UFC before. Cody believes Figlak will overwhelm Ziam with pressure and grappling, and he likes Figlak by late finish or decision. He also mentions the over 2 takedowns prop and the fantasy score over 86.5 on PrizePicks.

Figlak over 2 takedowns; Figlak over 86.5 fantasy points; Figlak wins in round 3 (+1800)
"I got fig like as well i think he goes out there and just constant pressure man... the guy's a junkyard dog for sure."
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Aug 31, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Farès Ziam

Daniel Levi picks Farès Ziam as an underdog, betting one unit at +170. He believes Ziam is underrated and that the line should be closer to pick'em. He notes Ziam's sharp kickboxing and improving takedown defense, and thinks Figlak is not a finisher on the ground. He expects Ziam to win a striking match.

"I took ZM plus one seven here one unit only one unit"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lean picked Aug 31, 2022 (3 days before fight)

The host leans towards Figlak due to his grappling advantage, expecting him to close the distance and use clinch work to control Ziam. He acknowledges Ziam's striking superiority but doubts Ziam's takedown defense. However, he is not betting because the line at -200 is too high for a debutant.

"I will still lean Fig like here to win this fight."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Aug 31, 2022 (3 days before fight)

Paul also picks Michal Figlak, agreeing with Cody's assessment. He highlights Figlak's pressure, wrestling, and durability, and notes that Ziam's low output and takedown defense are major weaknesses. Paul likes Figlak to win by decision or late finish, and he has bet Figlak round 3 at +1800.

Figlak wins in round 3 (+1800)
"I got fig like as well i think he goes out there and just constant pressure man... fig lock round three my official pick for the show."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Aug 29, 2022 (5 days before fight)

The MMA Guru picks Michal Figlak over Farès Ziam, praising Figlak's pressure, power, and cardio. He notes that Figlak has been consistent and durable, while Ziam has had inconsistent performances and close decisions. He predicts Figlak will win a tough 29-28 decision, as he is always winning rounds and doesn't have to come back from adversity.

Figlak wins by decision 29-28
"i'm going to go with mikhail figlack i like mikael figlac i've been watching him a lot on cage warriors"
Expert Picks (6)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Apr 21, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Michał Figlak

Angelo has a half-unit bet on Michał Figlak at -125, beating the line movement. He thinks Figlak is the much better and more dangerous fighter, with powerful striking and solid wrestling used defensively. He worries about Figlak's two-year layoff, noting that strikers with long layoffs often struggle to find rhythm. However, he believes Figlak's talent outweighs the risk at the current odds, though he cautions if Figlak reaches -170 or higher the layoff becomes too risky.

Bet: 0.5 units at -125
"I think mall figl is the much better fighter in this matchup certainly the more dangerous guy ... I'm on him I have a half a unit on him at minus 125"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Apr 24, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Michał Figlak

Cody picks Figlak, believing he will show improvement after a poor debut. He likes Figlak's pressure style and volume, and thinks Hubbard is a warm body with no standout skills. He expects Figlak to win by decision or late finish.

"sign me up for the minus 170 favorite here"
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Apr 24, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Michał Figlak

Daniel calls Hubbard 'harmless Hubbard' – durable but not a finisher. He thinks Figlak has had two years to improve and has the physicality and takedown defense to outwork Hubbard. He predicts Figlak by decision, noting Hubbard's lack of threat.

by decision
"I'm going figl by decision here"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Apr 26, 2024 (1 day before fight)
Austin Hubbard

Hubbard has a wrestling and grappling advantage and should be able to dictate the pace, take Figlak down, and grind him out from top position. Figlak struggled against a striker in his UFC debut and may not have the resistance to stop Hubbard's pressure. Hubbard wins on the scorecards.

"I think the more experienced fighter here in Austin hubard and the style that he brings to the table with his wrestling and uh mixing his wrestling behind and striking will cause figl some issues once again and that will allow hubber to grind him out from that top position"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Apr 24, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Michał Figlak

Paul also picks Figlak, citing his potential and Hubbard's limited ceiling. He notes Figlak's youth and room for growth, and believes the 16-month layoff will help him. He is worried about Hubbard's wrestling but trusts Figlak's improvements.

"I'm on team figl will he let me down again we'll have to find out"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Apr 23, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Michał Figlak

The MMA Guru picks Michał Figlak, noting he has been high on him for a long time. He mentions Figlak's training at Renegades with Leon Edwards and Arnold Allen, and his unrelenting pressure. He criticizes Austin Hubbard for looking awful against Kurt Holobaugh and beating low-level competition. He predicts Figlak will finish Hubbard with body shots to head shots in the late second or third round.

finish in late second or third round
"I'm going to go with maau figl I think he's a more technically sound fighter"