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Age 27
Height 6' 2"
Reach 75.0"
Weight 205 lbs.
Stance Orthodox
Age 29
Height 6' 3"
Reach 81.0"
Weight 205 lbs.
Stance Orthodox
Career Averages - Zhang Mingyang
7.71 SLpM
60.0% Str. Acc.
5.33 SApM
43.0% Str. Def.
0.0 TD Avg
0.0% TD Acc.
75.0% TD Def.
0.0 Sub. Avg
Career Averages - Brendson Ribeiro
3.04 SLpM
42.0% Str. Acc.
3.91 SApM
53.0% Str. Def.
0.85 TD Avg
42.0% TD Acc.
21.0% TD Def.
0.6 Sub. Avg
Zhang Mingyang
Moneyline
DraftKings -110
KO/TKO
FanDuel +140
Submission
FanDuel +750
Decision
DraftKings +1100
Brendson Ribeiro
Moneyline
BetRivers +110
KO/TKO
BetRivers +220
Submission
FanDuel +650
Decision
BetWay +1200
Zhang Mingyang - Fight History
SCHED vs Alonzo Menifield
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Alonzo Menifield vs. Mingyang Zhang
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Zhang (-250); Menifield (+200)

Round 1
Make that six first-round finishes in 11 fights, and with that, it’s over to you two, Zhang (19-7; 3-1 UFC) and Menifield (17-6-1; 10-6-1 UFC). Also, no pressure, Zhang, but Chinese fighters are 0-5 with two chances to go. The light heavyweight co-main event will be overseen by Marc Goddard. Both kickboxers are in orthodox stance and quickly meet in the middle of the cage, where they exchange a wild flurry of punches in close quarters. Both men land solidly, and Menifield is stung by one of the blows, but catches Zhang with a clean counter. They take a mere second to reset and then swing away once again. It’s starting to look as if this thing might be over inside of 30 seconds, but the fighters take a deep breath and compose themselves. The composure does not last, however; after a brief respite in which they clinch against the fence for a few moments, Menifield explodes with punches and Zhang throws back. Menifield is hurt! Zhang follows with a string of right hands, and a few land, but
Menifield staggers a step back, shakes off the cobwebs and crushes Zhang with a powerful left jab, then a right uppercut, left hook combo that puts Zhang on his seat at the base of the fence. He drops several left hands to the head of the turtled and dazed “Mountain Tiger” and referee Goddard has seen enough.
The Galaxy Arena goes dead silent as Alonzo Menifield has capped off a wild round by knocking out China’s most promising up-and-coming fighter north of lightweight.

The Official Result
Alonzo Menifield def. Mingyang Zhang R1 4:15 via TKO (Punches)
AJ
AJ DeVito Expert Confident picked May 26, 2026 (4 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

AJ is very confident Zhang will win by knockout, citing his first-round KO history and Menifield's recent KO loss to Volkan Oezdemir. He notes Menifield struggles with power punchers and doesn't have elite wrestling or leg kicks. Zhang is 27, a decade younger, and has fast hands. AJ predicts a first-round KO, possibly in the first minute.

Zhang KO at -175; Zhang round 1 KO at +145
"I think Mingyang Zhang is going to find that chin. Menifield's coming off a pretty bad knockout loss 6 months ago to Volkan Oezdemir. Zhang similar to that with the hands, I think gets it done by KO, too."
AJ
AJ DeVito Expert Confident picked May 27, 2026 (2 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

AJ is very confident in Zhang Mingyang, predicting a first-round knockout. He notes Menifield's age (38) and recent knockout losses, while Zhang is in his physical prime with heavy hands and speed. AJ believes Menifield's forward pressure plays into Zhang's boxing, and that Zhang will replicate the success of Menifield's previous KO loss.

Zhang Mingyang by KO -145 mentioned; Zhang by KO round 1 or 2 +155; round 1 KO +500; round 2 KO mentioned
"Ming Zang should dust the side of Allo Menafield. I think that he's knocking him out probably first round."
AJ
AJ DeVito Expert Confident picked May 18, 2026 (12 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

AJ picks Zhang, expecting a first-round KO. He notes Zhang's power, elbows, and hand speed will overwhelm Menifield, who has been knocked out violently in recent losses. AJ thinks Menifield's lack of takedown threat and poor chin will lead to a quick finish.

Zhang Mingyang wins by KO/TKO in round 1
"I'm going with Mingyang Zhang. I think he's about to knock Alonzo Menifield senseless. ... Mingyang Zhang has big knockout power in both hands. He's got nasty elbows."
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked May 24, 2026 (5 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

Angelo picks Zhang Mingyang, believing he is faster, has a better chin, and is more powerful than the aging Menifield. He notes that Menifield's leg kicks are not a threat like Johnny Walker's, so Mingyang's durability shouldn't be an issue. He thinks Mingyang will let his hands go and win, though Menifield remains dangerous.

"Mingyang Jiang is the pick. Allonzo's still dangerous at this age, but he's not quite who he used to be."
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked May 29, 2026 (fight day)
Zhang Mingyang

Angelo picks Zhang Mingyang to win by knockout, arguing that Menifield is chinny and has been knocked out in three of his last four losses. He believes Menifield lacks the leg kicks that troubled Zhang against Johnny Walker and that Zhang's power will prevail in a pocket fight.

knockout predicted; consider in lineup but Sergey more likely for KO
"I think Mingyang Jiang finds the finish here. Alonzo Menfield has been knocked out in three of his last four losses."
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked May 27, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

Angelo picks Zhang Mingyang because he is too big, too long, and should come forward and find the finish. He notes that Alonzo Menifield is an aging vet with declining speed and chin. However, he is nervous because Zhang lost his last fight to leg kicks.

"I do think Jiang's going to get the finish here. I think he's just too big, too long, and I think he's going to come forward and find the spot."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked May 26, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

Big Brady picks Zhang Mingyang by first-round knockout, noting that Zhang has never won a fight after the first round, so if Menifield survives five minutes his chances skyrocket. He views Menifield as potentially washed at 38, coming off a KO loss, and having taken a ton of damage. He acknowledges the line is steep at -240 but believes the UFC is setting Zhang up for a win in China.

first round knockout
"I'm going to pick him how he wins fights and that's going to be first round knockout. I think he's going to knock out menfield in the very first round here."
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked May 27, 2026 (2 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

Cody picks Zhang Mingyang despite acknowledging his cardio issues and the risk if the fight goes past the first round. He highlights Zhang's speed, low calf kicks, and the advantage of fighting in China. Cody notes Menifield's durability issues and that he's been knocked out four times, all in under two rounds. He believes Zhang's game plan of leg kicks and speed will pay dividends, but admits the longer the fight goes, the more trouble Zhang is in.

Zhang Mingyang first round knockout likely; live betting Menifield if it reaches second round
"The low calf kicks I think will pay dividends. The speed advantage will pay dividends, but the longer the fight goes, we're in some serious problem with Menfield."
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked May 27, 2026 (2 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

Levi picks Zhang Mingyang despite his loss to Johnny Walker, believing the setback was a wake-up call. He thinks Zhang has the length, reach, and firepower to put Menifield away, though he acknowledges Menifield has upset prospects before. Levi expects a knockout.

Zhang Mingyang by KO/TKO; odds: Zhang -250, Menifield +210
"I think he's got the length, he's got the reach, he's got the firepower to come out here and put Allonzo Menfield away."
JA
Jacob Lines Expert Confident picked May 27, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

Jacob picks Zhang Mingyang because Alonzo Menifield is a smaller light heavyweight and Zhang is a well-rounded 27-year-old. He thinks the UFC gave Zhang a favorable matchup after his loss to Johnny Walker. He believes Zhang will come forward with big elbows and shots.

"I think it's a good bounceback spot for Jiang. You want to take the Johnny Walker and be worried about it. I think it's a completely different fight."
LU
Lucrative James Expert Confident picked May 23, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Alonzo Menifield

Lucrative James picks Alonzo Menifield as a plus money underdog, citing major red flags on Zhang Mingyang after his loss to Johnny Walker where he showed poor leg kick defense and cardio issues. He notes Menifield's experience, durability, and ability to grit out wins, while Zhang has not faced adversity well. He believes Menifield's power and pressure will be too much, and predicts a finish inside the distance, possibly by submission in round two.

Alonzo Menifield inside the distance, round 2, submission
"I am going to pick Alonzo Menfield to win this fight. I'm gonna pick him to win this fight inside the distance. I'm gonna pick him to win this fight in round two."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked May 25, 2026 (4 days before fight)
Alonzo Menifield

The host picks Menifield as an underdog, citing his experience and power. He believes if Menifield avoids Mingyang's early knockout power, he can cruise in deeper waters. He notes Mingyang has never won a fight past the first round and questions his durability. He expects Menifield to counter and knock out Mingyang.

I would rather take the under one and a half or take round one.
"I got to take my chances on Menfield here. There's no way you can tell me that Menfield's not worth it at minus 210."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked May 27, 2026 (2 days before fight)
Alonzo Menifield

The host picks Alonzo Menifield, especially at plus 210 odds. He believes Menifield will have a better game plan, keep his feet moving, mix it up in the clinch, and potentially go for takedowns. With his atomic power, he expects Menifield to put Zhang Mingyang away within the first two rounds.

plus 210 odds, inside first two rounds
"I believe Menfield is the side here, especially at plus 210. I think he'll be able to come in with a better game plan ... I think we'll see him come through with that here as he puts Mingyang Jang …"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked May 27, 2026 (2 days before fight)
Alonzo Menifield

Paul picks Menifield as a value play, acknowledging the risk of a first-round knockout. He notes Menifield's veteran experience, submission grappling advantage, and the possibility of dragging the fight into later rounds. Paul took a small sprinkle on Menifield by submission at +880 and plans to live bet Menifield if he survives the first round. He admits he can't get to -240 on Zhang and is willing to accept the risk.

Menifield by submission +880; Menifield round three prop; live betting Menifield in round two
"I'm gonna pick him for the purposes of this show just because like I just can't get to minus 240 on Jien. If he knocks him out in round one, like so be it."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked May 20, 2026 (9 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

The Guru picks Mingyang Zhang over Alonzo Menifield, citing Zhang's devastating power and Menifield's glass chin. He believes Zhang's fearless pressure will lead to an early knockout, as Menifield tends to stand and trade. He notes Menifield's history of being knocked out by power punchers.

"I'm going to go Mingyang Zhang to win this fight."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked May 26, 2026 (4 days before fight)
Alonzo Menifield

The Guru picks Menifield as an underdog, citing his grit and multiple paths to victory. He notes Menifield has good head movement, power, and grappling with nasty ground and pound. Mingyang starts fast with power and elbows but fades after round one. Menifield can win in any round or by decision.

"I think Manifield wins this fight unless he gets knocked out in the first round."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked May 20, 2026 (9 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

The MMA Guru picks Zhang Mingyang to win by knockout in the first round. He notes that Zhang's technical boxing is good and he will box from range, while Menifield relies on overhands and cage pushing. He believes Zhang will find boxing success and knock out Menifield, as long as he doesn't get caught by a big shot.

"We're going to see Jang Mman win this fight by knockout in the first round and it should be pretty fun."
LOSS vs Johnny Walker
KO R2 2:37 · UFC Fight Night: Walker vs. Zhang · Aug 23, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Johnny Walker 1 50 of 67 74% 51 of 70 0 of 2 0% 0 0 1:20
Zhang Mingyang 0 20 of 47 42% 28 of 59 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:21
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Johnny Walker 0 9 of 22 40% 10 of 25 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:39
Zhang Mingyang 0 12 of 30 40% 20 of 42 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:21
2 Johnny Walker 1 41 of 45 91% 41 of 45 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:41
Zhang Mingyang 0 8 of 17 47% 8 of 17 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Johnny Walker 50 of 67 74% 36 of 49 1 of 5 13 of 13 15 of 26 2 of 4 33 of 37
Zhang Mingyang 20 of 47 42% 8 of 35 6 of 6 6 of 6 15 of 39 4 of 6 1 of 2
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Johnny Walker 9 of 22 40% 3 of 12 1 of 5 5 of 5 7 of 18 2 of 4 0 of 0
Zhang Mingyang 12 of 30 40% 6 of 24 5 of 5 1 of 1 7 of 22 4 of 6 1 of 2
2 Johnny Walker 41 of 45 91% 33 of 37 0 of 0 8 of 8 8 of 8 0 of 0 33 of 37
Zhang Mingyang 8 of 17 47% 2 of 11 1 of 1 5 of 5 8 of 17 0 of 0 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Johnny Walker vs. Mingyang Zhang

Round 1
The moment of truth has arrived, as Zhang stakes his 12-fight win streak—the last four in the Octagon—against Walker in an attempt to take a huge step towards becoming China’s second UFC champion. Walker, for his part, seeks to prove he has made strides in fight IQ and defense to go with his outlandish physical gifts and offensive arsenal. In an eminently sensible move, Marc Goddard, the largest referee available, has pulled main event duty. Zhang reaches out for a glove touch. Walker trots across the cage, ducks under his foe’s outstretched hand and shoots for a takedown. It isn’t terribly sporting, but more importantly it backfires, as he ends up with Zhang on top of him in his guard. Zhang tries to capitalize with some elbow strikes, but Walker manages to survive the miscue with little damage. Zhang lets him return to his feet and hurts him with a right hand. Zhang gives chase as Walker stumbles to the fence, and is forced to back off as Walker whiffs with a huge haymaker. Walker comes up short with a flying knee. Zhang clinches and drives Walker to the fence. Two minutes to go and they finally separate. Zhang is still in pursuit, but ends up chasing the Brazilian around the cage rather than cutting angles. Walker shoots a long double-leg and Zhang snuffs it out easily. Zhang rocks Walker with a big elbow inside. Walker backs off and returns to sliding around the perimeter, Zhang in tow. Zhang slaps a high kick off the side of Walker’s head at the clapper.
10-9 Zhang.

Round 2
Zhang is the aggressor to open Round 2, but Walker continues to move laterally, refusing to be trapped against the fence. The pace has slowed a bit, a minute into the round, but Zhang steps forward and lands two straight right hands that make the big man stumble. Walker creeps forward and meets Zhang in the center of the cage.
Walker lands a hard leg kick, then another. Zhang is in trouble, having taken some kind of serious damage from the kicks. Walker connects with another low kick, but Zhang is already on his way down. Walker pounces on his stricken foe, delivering some huge punches and elbows, and the suspense is suddenly over whether he will manage to get himself disqualified, as the blows rain all over Zhang’s head, while he grounds and ungrounds himself.
Enough legal blows get through—and no blatantly illegal ones—that the outcome becomes obvious to all, and Goddard moves in to halt the beating. A wild end to a wild fight.

The Official Result
Johnny Walker def. Mingyang Zhang R2 2:37 via TKO (Punches and Elbows)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Aug 17, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

Angelo is very confident in Zhang Mingyang, calling him a dangerous finisher on feet and ground. He criticizes Johnny Walker for losing his craziness after training at SBG Ireland and becoming chinny. He thinks this is a showcase for the hometown guy and that Walker will get knocked out. He says Mingyang should be a much heavier favorite.

Odds are -400 for Mingyang; Angelo thinks he should be a much heavier favorite.
"Four to one favorite on Mingyang Jang. He should be a 1400 to1 favorite. Obviously, it's a fist fight. Anything could happen in a fist fight. But this is not a good matchup for Johnny Walker."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Aug 21, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

Big Brady picks Zhang Mingyang to win by first-round knockout, stating that Johnny Walker has a glass chin and has been knocked out six times. He notes that Zhang hits very hard and that Walker is unlikely to wrestle given his history. He believes the fight will be a striking match and that Zhang will knock Walker out early. He does not like the -310 line or the props.

Zhang Mingyang by first round KO; props are horrible
"I'm going Jong Ming to win this fight by first round knockout."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Aug 21, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

Connor believes Johnny Walker is a broken fighter after training at SBG Ireland, where he lost his aggressive brawling style and now moves around aimlessly without a clear game plan. He notes that Walker's last three fights show him getting annihilated, and that Zhang Mingyang, while unproven, is a big, fast, aggressive brawler who will likely just throw punches until Walker gets knocked out. Connor thinks this fight will be less competitive than Walker's loss to Anthony Smith.

Odds: Zhang opened at -400, now -310; Walker opened +330, now +260. Connor notes the odds are not as wide as he expected, suggesting the market hasn't fully realized Walker's decline.
"Like young Ming young might not be a nuanced or deft striker in any way, but he is probably just gonna go out there and throw stuff at Johnny Walker until Johnny Walker gets knocked out."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Aug 21, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

The host notes that all 19 of Mingyang's victories have come in the first round and expects him to continue that trend against Johnny Walker, who has comically horrible durability at this stage. He thinks Mingyang will take the pace immediately, dictate range, and land big shots to get Walker out in the first round by knockout.

win by KO/TKO, inside 1 round
"All 19 victories for Ciang have come in the first round and I expect him to continue that trend here against Johnny Walker who has comically horrible durability at this stage of his career. And I think we'll see Jiang …"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Aug 22, 2025 (1 day before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

The MMA Guru picks Zhang Mingyang to win by first-round KO. He expresses no trust in Johnny Walker's chin, noting that Walker gets knocked out repeatedly. He highlights that all of Zhang's wins are first-round KOs and that he found the punch on Brenson Ribeiro, who is tall and rangy. He believes Zhang is a master at finding those shots and that Walker is chinny enough to get put down. He acknowledges that Walker might try to grapple, but expects the fight to be decided in the pocket.

Zhang Mingyang by first round KO
"I'm going to have to go with Jangyang. I can't trust Johnny Walker to get hit on the chin by a professional fighter."
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Aug 21, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

Zane agrees with Connor that Johnny Walker is broken, citing his lack of direction and inability to execute a neutralizing game plan. He points out that Walker's footwork is poor and he can't hold opponents off with range tools, making him an easy target for Zhang's aggression. Zane expects Zhang to win by knockout, as Walker's fight response has turned into a flight response.

"I think this could look less competitive than the Anthony Smith fight where Anthony Smith literally spent like two full minutes on his knees begging the referee to step in."
WIN vs Anthony Smith
KO R1 4:03 · UFC on ESPN: Machado Garry vs. Prates · Apr 26, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Anthony Smith 0 10 of 21 47% 11 of 22 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:16
Zhang Mingyang 0 63 of 81 77% 76 of 97 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:28
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Anthony Smith 0 10 of 21 47% 11 of 22 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:16
Zhang Mingyang 0 63 of 81 77% 76 of 97 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:28
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Anthony Smith 10 of 21 47% 8 of 18 2 of 3 0 of 0 10 of 21 0 of 0 0 of 0
Zhang Mingyang 63 of 81 77% 42 of 58 6 of 8 15 of 15 35 of 46 3 of 4 25 of 31
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Anthony Smith 10 of 21 47% 8 of 18 2 of 3 0 of 0 10 of 21 0 of 0 0 of 0
Zhang Mingyang 63 of 81 77% 42 of 58 6 of 8 15 of 15 35 of 46 3 of 4 25 of 31
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Mingyang Zhang vs. Anthony Smith
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Zhang (-500), Smith (+380)

Round 1
The purported last dance for storied veteran Smith (38-21, 13-11 UFC) has arrived, as he plans on calling it quits at the conclusion of his 60th pro outing, win or lose. Getting the honor of facing Smith on the way out, Zhang (18-6, 2-0 UFC) is a massive betting favorite having won his last 11 bouts by first-round stoppage. If that is soon to become 12, or if Smith can pull one more rabbit out of the hat, referee Jason Herzog will be the first to know. The emotional Smith does not touch gloves before getting down to it, and everyone in the building sharply inhales ahead of what’s about to come. Zhang attempts to strike first, with a high kick that is blocked and a low kick that is not. Zhang kicks the lead leg two more times, and a third flusters Smith and forces him to engage. Smith wings punches that do not land cleanly, and Zhang kicks his front leg again. The low kicks have already done some damage, as he is preemptively lifting his leg up to defend against them. Zhang has a few punches pound into the guard, and Smith ties him up. Zhang scores short knees on the inside, and Smith leans his weight on his opponent and frames off for an elbow that never comes. Zhang escapes, and Smith follows him and walks through low kicks and elbows. Zhang wraps a stern right hand around the guard, and his leg kicks continue scoring. Smith gets off an elbow through the guard, and he is quickly answered by a low kick. Smith jams another elbow on the dome, and Zhang gives him one back and slashes open a cut on the top of his head. Blood flows fast down his head, and he shakes his head to get it out of his eyes. Smith wipes his eyes out as Zhang keeps striking, and the nasty elbows from Zhang find their home on his cheek again and again. Smith says enough is enough when it comes to those strikes, and he shoots in for a naked takedown from afar. Zhang lands a strike to the back of the head, and Smith pulls guard to drag him into the grappling world. Smith sits up, and Herzog tells Zhang he is down and not to kick or knee him in the head. Smith takes some shots, and he sits up and gets bowled over with punches and elbows that continue battering him.
Herzog tells Smith to move, eventually raising his voice to scream that he needs to do something. Giving Smith way more time than most would be, Herzog allows Zhang to beat Smith down and spray blood all over the mat. Smith shells up on his side, the damage suddenly a bit too much for him. Smith falls to his back, and Zhang clobbers him until Herzog has seen enough
. Smith sits up and calls for a bucket, and he stands up and gives a middle finger to someone in the audience. “Lionheart” marches to the cage wall and shouts down someone in the crowd, and everyone looks around confusedly while Zhang tries to calm his opponent down. Smith shakes out of it, and he raises Zhang’s arm in the air to congratulate him for crushing his final moment to shine. MMA is a cruel sport at times, but as Smith fades away, it is possible—however unlikely—that China has a new star on its hands in the form of “Mountain Tiger” and his 100% finish rate. Zhang is now a ranked fighter, while Smith takes his gloves off to complete his retirement ceremony. Whether this is his final fight or not, the choice remains in the hands of the 36-year-old former title challenger.

The Official Result
Mingyang Zhang def. Anthony Smith R1 4:03 via TKO (Elbows)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Apr 20, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

Angelo picks Zhang Mingyang, believing his power and grappling will be too much for an aging Anthony Smith. He notes that Mingyang is a grappler at core with great takedowns, and that Smith's grappling is not a threat. He is slightly nervous because Mingyang is untested, but he has him in a parlay.

Parlay with Jaqueline Amorim and Ikram Aliskerov at -150
"I think Ming Yang gets it done. I'm pretty confident in him."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Apr 22, 2025 (4 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

Big Brady picks Zhang Mingyang, citing Anthony Smith's decline and poor reaction to punches. He expects Zhang's power to land a big shot and finish Smith early. He notes Smith has been counted out before but still favors Zhang by first-round knockout.

first round knockout
"Give me Jeang Mingong to win this fight by first round knockout."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Apr 24, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

Connor picks Zhang because he believes Anthony Smith is a head case who has been declining and reverting to his old, losing ways. Smith's recent fights show him getting discouraged easily and running out of ideas. Zhang is a durable brawler who can soak up damage and extend exchanges, and Smith's current mental state makes him vulnerable to Zhang's pressure and power.

"I'm not picking him either. I just think, you know, he could totally win it."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lean picked Apr 25, 2025 (1 day before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

The host leans Mingyang with low confidence, noting that if Mingyang doesn't get a first-round KO, Smith could take over late or get a submission. He expects Mingyang to find a shot, put Smith on wobbly legs, and finish with ground and pound in the first round.

first round KO
"I am going to lean with Jen with very low confidence as I think he ends up finding that shot to put Smith on wobbly legs and follow up with some ground and pound to get him out of there …"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Apr 22, 2025 (4 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

The MMA Guru picks Zhang Mingyang to win by TKO in the first round. He is very high on Mingyang, calling him a real deal prospect with knockout power and sharp technique. He criticizes Anthony Smith's predictable style, emotional state (crying on walkout), and lack of a serious mindset. He believes Mingyang will overwhelm Smith early.

TKO round 1
"I think Jang Minyang is going to TKO him in the first round. And this is Smith's retirement fight. I'm not considering he's going to train harder for this than he has for any other fight in his career."
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Apr 24, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

Zane picks Zhang, noting that even the worst version of Anthony Smith has the tools to beat Zhang, but Smith's emotional struggles and tendency to shut down make him unreliable. Zhang is fearless, powerful, and will fight without hesitation, which is a bad matchup for the current version of Smith. Zane also mentions that Smith's recent performances show him getting discouraged and losing focus.

"I'm not gonna pick him in the middle of all the struggles and just assume that the incredibly obvious, horrible emotional burden that he was, has carried with him into the cage before is gone."
WIN vs Ozzy Diaz
TKO (elbow and punches) R1 2:25 · UFC Fight Night: Yan vs. Figueiredo · Nov 23, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Zhang Mingyang 1 17 of 34 50% 19 of 38 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:05
Ozzy Diaz 0 9 of 12 75% 9 of 12 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Zhang Mingyang 1 17 of 34 50% 19 of 38 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:05
Ozzy Diaz 0 9 of 12 75% 9 of 12 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Zhang Mingyang 17 of 34 50% 9 of 24 2 of 4 6 of 6 15 of 26 0 of 0 2 of 8
Ozzy Diaz 9 of 12 75% 4 of 7 5 of 5 0 of 0 9 of 12 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Zhang Mingyang 17 of 34 50% 9 of 24 2 of 4 6 of 6 15 of 26 0 of 0 2 of 8
Ozzy Diaz 9 of 12 75% 4 of 7 5 of 5 0 of 0 9 of 12 0 of 0 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Mingyang Zhang vs. Osman Diaz

Round 1
The main card has begun, and all the Road to UFC fights are behind us. It’s time for some action. Light heavyweight finishers that sport matching 100% stoppage rates come to blows, and referee Kevin Sataki better fasten his safety belt. Zhang (17-6, 1-0 UFC) has the crowd behind him and a ton of momentum with 10 straight knockouts at his back. LFA vet Diaz (9-2, 0-0 UFC) will certainly not shy away from a brawl, and it could get wild in a hurry. The two clap their hands together, and it is Zhang who moves directly to the center of the cage. The fans are energized and chanting support for “Mountain Tiger,” who leads the dance with a push kick and then two calf kicks. Diaz leaps forward with a left hand that is blocked, and he ducks down and nearly gets kneed. Zhang splits the guard with a leaping left hand, and Diaz lunges at him back with a jab. Diaz’ jab is countered by a few leg kicks, and Zhang reaches him with a left hand up top. Diaz scores a right hand to make the Chinese fighter smile, and Zhang races after him loaded for bear. Diaz backs him off with an overhand right, and he slips away from a body jab but cannot get out of the way of a one-two. Diaz plunks his foe with a right hand around the guard, and Zhang smiles and resets.
Zhang hammers the front leg, and he nails Diaz with a short but devastating elbow that puts Diaz down. Barely still with it, Diaz turns to his knees and turtles up, and the man from China rushes after him to pummel him. About a dozen swarming punches get through from Zhang before Sataki has seen enough
, and Zhang’s 100% finish rate—all in the first round—stays intact by crushing the LFA vet. The crowd goes wild.

The Official Result
Mingyang Zhang def. Osman Diaz R1 2:25 via TKO (Elbow and Punches)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Nov 17, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

Angelo picks Zhang Mingyang, citing his superior grappling and power. He notes Ozzy Diaz is chinny and skinny, and expects Zhang to finish inside the distance. He suggests looking for extra juice on Zhang inside the distance.

Zhang inside the distance; fight won't go to distance
"Jiang is going to be the pick here you're probably safe to try to find a little extra juice like Jiang inside the distance"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Nov 20, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

Big Brady picks Zhang Mingyang to win by first-round knockout. He thinks the odds are off but notes Ozzy Diaz is very hitable and has a questionable chin, often getting beaten up before mounting a comeback. Zhang has tremendous power and is likely to land early. Brady expects a violent first-round finish, as Zhang has never won a fight that went past the first round.

Zhang Mingyang wins by KO in round 1
"I think the most likely scenario is a jang mingyong first round knockout and that's what I'll go with"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Nov 20, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Ozzy Diaz

Cody picks Diaz as a live underdog, arguing that Zhang's record is built on weak competition and he has been knocked out or submitted in most losses. Diaz has fought better competition, trains at Kings MMA, and has power and a ground game. He expects a banger where Diaz's experience and durability give him the edge, possibly by knockout.

"I would take aie Diaz yeah I can't really disagree with very much there it just seems it's like an absolute car crash"
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Hesitant picked Nov 21, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

Connor picks Zhang but hesitantly, noting that Diaz's pressure and composure could take Zhang into the second round, where Zhang historically loses. He acknowledges that King's MMA fighters often overperform and Diaz could survive the early storm. However, Connor thinks Zhang's power and brawling are a good answer for Diaz's style, and he's not ready to fade Zhang yet.

Same odds commentary as Zane.
"I think he's a very reasonable pick as well. But you know how loathe we are to trust first-round knockout machines."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Nov 21, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

Daniel Vreeland picks Zhang Mingyang, a Chinese knockout artist on a 10-fight win streak. He notes Diaz's tendency to get beaten up early before opponents gas, but believes Zhang will not gas out and will finish him. Vreeland highlights Zhang's devastating ground and pound and chin-finding ability, expecting a knockout in Macau.

by KO
"I'm going Ming yangang Jang to come out here and get a devastating knockout"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Nov 20, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Ozzy Diaz

Paul agrees, noting that Zhang's wins are over nobodies and his losses are by finish. Diaz has trained with high-level partners and has power in his hands. He thinks the plus money is worth a shot in a volatile matchup where both have knockout power, but Diaz's superior competition gives him the edge.

"give me the guy who trains it with a good gym in California get good looks I mean it comes down to Who's Who skull can take you know who can who who skull can take a concussive blow"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Nov 21, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

The MMA Guru picks Zhang Mingyang over Ozzy Diaz, citing Zhang's power and finishing instincts. He notes Zhang knocked out Branson Ribero in his debut and knocked out Tokotos on Road to UFC. He views Diaz as a 'skinny fat' athlete who got smoked by Joe Pyfer and has a questionable win over Bavon Lewis. He predicts a first-round TKO for Zhang.

first round TKO
"I'm going to go with mingyang Jang over Aussie Diaz"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Nov 21, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

Zane picks Zhang Mingyang, citing his brawling power and first-round finishing ability. He notes that Diaz is a functional pressure fighter but lacks elite athleticism, and Zhang's power could put him away early. Zane acknowledges that Zhang is a first-round knockout machine and usually loses if he goes past the first, but Diaz's style plays into Zhang's strengths.

Diaz opened +253, now +273; Zhang opened -301, now -329. Zane says 'these odds should not be getting wider' and 'Zhong is not that guy to have wide odds.'
"I'm going to take Zhang Mingyang just to land the kind of shots on Diaz walking in that have put Diaz to sleep before."
KO (punches) R1 1:41 · UFC 298: Volkanovski vs. Topuria · Feb 17, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Zhang Mingyang 1 17 of 28 60% 17 of 28 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Brendson Ribeiro 0 14 of 31 45% 14 of 31 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Zhang Mingyang 1 17 of 28 60% 17 of 28 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Brendson Ribeiro 0 14 of 31 45% 14 of 31 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Zhang Mingyang 17 of 28 60% 13 of 19 2 of 5 2 of 4 14 of 25 0 of 0 3 of 3
Brendson Ribeiro 14 of 31 45% 14 of 31 0 of 0 0 of 0 14 of 31 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Zhang Mingyang 17 of 28 60% 13 of 19 2 of 5 2 of 4 14 of 25 0 of 0 3 of 3
Brendson Ribeiro 14 of 31 45% 14 of 31 0 of 0 0 of 0 14 of 31 0 of 0 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Mingyang Zhang vs. Brendson Ribeiro
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Zhang (-142), Ribeiro (+120)

Round 1
Opening up the ESPN prelims is likely to be an explosive one, as these two fighters come in with 31 finishes across their 31 pro wins. Zhang (16-6, 1-0 UFC) worked his way to the UFC courtesy of a spot on the Road to UFC qualifier, and Ribeiro (15-5, 1 NC; 0-0 UFC) is yet another DWCS pickup. With the majority of their combined victories via first-round stoppage, referee Mike Beltran cannot take his eyes off the prize for even a second. The light heavyweights hesitantly touch ‘em up, and Zhang moves forward to kick low to start off. Ribeiro swings for the bleachers, and when he comes up short, Zhang boots him in the ribs. Ribeiro flicks out a jab that stings Zhang, and Ribeiro is quick to follow with a one-two that stuns him and draws a smile from the Chinese contender. Ribeiro unloads a pair of punches, and Zhang stands right in front of him and is ready to hurl back with bad intentions. Ribeiro bloodies up Zhang’s mouth, and they both hurl huge shots at one another. Zhang takes a right hand on the eye socket, and he raises his arm to call time. Beltran tells him to keep fighting, and fight he does.
Zhang sticks out a jab, wings a right hook and chains it into a ferocious left hook that all land cleanly, and Ribeiro might be out before the back of his head bounces of the canvas. Just to seal the deal, Zhang drives down three jackhammering hammerfists, and Beltran recognizes that Ribeiro’s goose is cooked and waves the fight off.
In the hierarchy of the jungle, “Mountain Tiger” destroyed “Gorilla” tonight.

The Official Result
Mingyang Zhang def. Brendson Ribeiro R1 1:41 via KO (Punches)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Lean picked Feb 11, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Brendson Ribeiro

Angelo picks Brendson Ribeiro as the underdog, citing his more dangerous offense and Zhang's hollow record. He notes Ribeiro is hittable and can be finished, so he won't bet on him unless the line moves further. He thinks Ribeiro's aggression and power can get the job done.

"I'm going the dog here I like robero I think his offense is more the more dangerous of the two"
BI
Big Brady Expert Lean picked Feb 13, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Brendson Ribeiro

Big Brady picks Brendson Ribeiro as a dog, citing his significant reach advantage (6 inches) and power. He notes that Zhang Mingyang is hitable and has been knocked out three times. He acknowledges both fighters have red flags but believes Ribeiro's offense and length will be too much. He says nobody should be favored here and has low confidence.

Ribeiro by KO, round 1
"I will take the dog here in Brenson robero just because this guy is going to have a pretty significant reach six inch reach Advantage he hits very very hard"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Feb 14, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Brendson Ribeiro

Cody picks Ribeiro, recalling his terrifying appearance on Contender Series. He notes Zhang's loss to a fraudulent fighter (Oscar Mova) as a red flag. He believes Ribeiro's ground game gives him an edge if he can land first. He sees this as a dog-or-pass fight and takes the plus money.

under 1.5 rounds (expected to be juiced)
"I'll go with the devil I know in the fact that like Brenson robero for 15 or he was 14 and five going into Contender series like I watched him and I'm like that's a dangerous man..."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Feb 14, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Brendson Ribeiro

Daniel picks Brendson Ribeiro as a dog. He dislikes Zhang's competition level, noting he has fought short heavy Chinese men he's never heard of. He also cites Zhang's inactivity (1.5 years). He likes Ribeiro's length, well-roundedness, and finishing ability. He acknowledges that Ribeiro's regional Brazilian competition isn't great either, but prefers his Contender Series performance over Zhang's Road to UFC wins.

"I'm going with the dog I'm going with hiier here um I really don't like jiang's competition when you look at it on paper... I like hi's length I like his well-roundedness obviously I like his finishing ability."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Lean picked Feb 13, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Brendson Ribeiro

Daniel Vreeland picks Brendson Ribeiro, favoring the Brazilian over the Chinese fighter. He notes Ribeiro's better level of competition, training at a good camp, and six-inch reach advantage. He believes both are hittable but expects Ribeiro to knock out Zhang. He does not recommend a big wager.

"I slightly favor Brenson as well... just give me Brazil over China in MMA."
JE
Jeff Fox Expert Confident picked Feb 14, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

Jeff picks Zhang Mingyang, disagreeing with Daniel. He was impressed by Zhang's performance on Road to UFC, where he beat George Tokos with sharp boxing and composure. He notes that Zhang's punches come in straight and he doesn't overextend, even when hurting opponents. In contrast, he criticizes Ribeiro for overextending on the Contender Series despite a reach advantage. He believes Zhang will pick Ribeiro apart and find a knockout.

"I'm gonna go with mingyang here and uh I you know I was in the same boat as you with mingy Yang's competition going into that road to the UFC fight... I was infinitely impressed."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Feb 15, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Brendson Ribeiro

Ribeiro is calm under pressure and can throw power from his back foot. His key is taking Mingyang to the mat, where he can find dominant positions and land big shots for a TKO. Expects a finish in the first or second round.

"I think his key to victory in this match will be able to take mingyang to the mat and from there he does great work in terms of finding the dominant position required to posture up and land big shots …"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Feb 14, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Brendson Ribeiro

Paul picks Ribeiro as a dog, noting both fighters are glass cannons with first-round finishes. He mentions Ribeiro's ground game and ability to swarm with ground and pound. He sees this as a classic dog-or-pass fight and takes the plus money on Ribeiro.

under 1.5 rounds (expected to be juiced)
"I got to go with rerel plus 125 Underdog someone's getting cracked I take the under on this thing the fight doesn't go the distance."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Feb 13, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Brendson Ribeiro

The MMA Guru picks Brendson Ribeiro, trusting his wins over better competition and his reach advantage (81 vs 75.5 inches). He notes Ribeiro's straight punches could counter Zhang's hooks. He worries about Zhang's ground game but trusts Ribeiro to get a KO. He also mentions Zhang's frustrating path to the UFC and Ribeiro's natural momentum.

"I am gonna go Brendson Ribeiro over Zhang Mingyang... I trust a western can over an Eastern can."
Brendson Ribeiro - Fight History
Submission R1 2:52 · UFC Fight Night: Moicano vs. Duncan · Apr 04, 2026
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev 0 7 of 15 46% 23 of 38 2 of 3 66% 1 0 1:56
Brendson Ribeiro 0 8 of 17 47% 8 of 17 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev 0 7 of 15 46% 23 of 38 2 of 3 66% 1 0 1:56
Brendson Ribeiro 0 8 of 17 47% 8 of 17 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev 7 of 15 46% 6 of 14 1 of 1 0 of 0 3 of 11 0 of 0 4 of 4
Brendson Ribeiro 8 of 17 47% 5 of 13 1 of 1 2 of 3 8 of 17 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev 7 of 15 46% 6 of 14 1 of 1 0 of 0 3 of 11 0 of 0 4 of 4
Brendson Ribeiro 8 of 17 47% 5 of 13 1 of 1 2 of 3 8 of 17 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Lock picked Mar 29, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev

Angelo is extremely confident in Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev, calling it the easiest pick on the card. He notes Yakhyaev is a good prospect with wrestling, striking, and power, while Brendson Ribeiro is hitable and has a quit button. However, he strongly advises against betting at -1400 odds, calling it not worth the risk.

Angelo mentions the odds -1400 and says 'Do nothing with this. You cannot bet on a minus400 favorite.' He suggests finding a prop instead.
"Yakayv, no discussion. He wins this fight 10 out of 10 times."
BI
Big Brady Expert Lock picked Mar 30, 2026 (5 days before fight)
Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev

Big Brady is extremely confident Yakhyaev will win, calling it 'dumb matchmaking.' He expects Yakhyaev to knock out Ribeiro within the first minute, as he has done in recent fights. He notes Ribeiro has no chin and that Yakhyaev finishes fights quickly.

Yakhyaev by KO in first minute
"Yakhyaev's going to come forward and he's going to knock out Brendson Ribeiro in the first a minute of the fight."
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Apr 2, 2026 (2 days before fight)
Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev

Cody is confident Yakhyaev wins by first-round knockout, given Ribeiro's history of first-round KO losses. He notes Yakhyaev's well-rounded skills and the mismatch, but warns about the prohibitive moneyline.

first round knockout +130
"I got first round knockout for Yaki being that he is probably he's wellrounded. He can submit you just as easily can knock you out. But I think in Brenson Rivero's case, his last five knockout or his last five …"
LU
Lucrative James Expert Lock picked Mar 30, 2026 (5 days before fight)
Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev

James is extremely confident in Yakhyaev, calling it a 'murder scene.' He highlights Yakhyaev's explosiveness, wrestling, and finishing ability, while noting Ribeiro's lack of durability and short-notice camp. He predicts a round one KO, stating Yakhyaev is a legitimate prospect who will run through Ribeiro. He mentions the odds are too high to bet but is certain of the outcome.

Round 1 KO prediction
"I'm calling a round one finish for Yaky. The guy is minus 1,400 on a money line. I don't really want to speak too much in depth about this one, boys."
LU
Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Apr 1, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev

James is very high on Yakhyaev, calling him one of the greatest fighters in the division and predicting he will steamroll Ribeiro and become a champion. He compares his confidence to his previous correct call on Loena Cavana.

"I think this guy is going to steamroll Brener Ribeiro and I think he's going to become either a champion or fight for the belt in the next 3 years."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Mar 31, 2026 (4 days before fight)
Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev

The host is extremely confident in Yakhyaev, citing his insane ceiling, dangerous grappling and striking, and a horrible stylistic matchup for Ribeiro. He expects a first-round finish and advises against parlaying the heavy chalk, instead looking for props. He notes Ribeiro's recent losses and lack of success against similar competition.

under 1.5 rounds at -380; round 1 prop on Yakhyaev
"I think Yaky runs through him as well. I think he finishes him in the first round."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Apr 2, 2026 (2 days before fight)
Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev

Paul is confident Yakhyaev wins, likely by submission or KO in the first round. He notes the price is prohibitive but suggests playing the round one prop or parlay.

round one prop
"Maybe maybe the move is just eat the chalk on the the round one prop, which is super like minus 227 is the best I can play on that. Um I can parlay that up. That's probably how I go …"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Apr 4, 2026 (fight day)
Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev

The MMA Guru confidently picks Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev, citing his undefeated record, fast starts, and nasty finishes. He notes that Brendson Ribeiro has been finished multiple times early in fights and expects Yakhyaev to secure a first-round TKO.

First-round TKO predicted
"Against someone like Yakhyaev who starts so fast and so dangerous, it's a recipe for a first round TKO for him."
LOSS vs Oumar Sy
KO R1 4:42 · UFC Fight Night: Imavov vs. Borralho · Sep 06, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Oumar Sy 0 17 of 43 39% 21 of 49 2 of 4 50% 0 0 3:28
Brendson Ribeiro 0 5 of 14 35% 11 of 22 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:03
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Oumar Sy 0 17 of 43 39% 21 of 49 2 of 4 50% 0 0 3:28
Brendson Ribeiro 0 5 of 14 35% 11 of 22 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:03
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Oumar Sy 17 of 43 39% 14 of 38 0 of 1 3 of 4 4 of 11 0 of 0 13 of 32
Brendson Ribeiro 5 of 14 35% 2 of 10 1 of 2 2 of 2 5 of 14 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Oumar Sy 17 of 43 39% 14 of 38 0 of 1 3 of 4 4 of 11 0 of 0 13 of 32
Brendson Ribeiro 5 of 14 35% 2 of 10 1 of 2 2 of 2 5 of 14 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Aug 31, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Oumar Sy

Angelo picks Oumar Sy confidently, despite holding a grudge from Sy's previous loss. He acknowledges Sy's athleticism, speed, and power, and believes he can weather Ribeiro's early danger and then dominate with wrestling. He criticizes Ribeiro's quit button and susceptibility to being hit. He expects Sy to win, likely by wrestling, but warns that if he loses, he should be cut.

"I think Omar Sai wins here. I'm pretty confident that he wins here."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Sep 4, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Oumar Sy

Big Brady is very confident in Oumar Sy, calling it a layup. He highlights Ribeiro's 0% takedown defense and poor ground game. He expects Sy to take him down easily and finish via submission or TKO in the first round, despite Sy's previous failure as a heavy favorite.

Sy by submission, round 1
"I'll say Omar C wins this fight by first round sub."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Sep 4, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Oumar Sy

The host thinks this is a great matchup for Sy to bounce back after his first pro defeat. He expects Sy to put pressure on Ribeiro, drag him to the ground, and open up a finishing position via ground and pound or submission.

ground and pound or submission
"Look for C to really put the pressure on Hibetto, eventually drag him to the ground, and I think he'll be able to open up a finishing position, whether it is by ground and pound or by submission."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Sep 3, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Oumar Sy

The Guru picks Oumar Sy, citing his well-roundedness, patience, and footwork. He believes Sy can control the pace and avoid Ribeiro's wildness, similar to how Alonzo Menifield couldn't finish Sy. He predicts a 30-27 decision win, with Sy's movement neutralizing Ribeiro's chaos.

"I'm going to go with Umar Sai. I think a lot of people are going with Umar Sai here."
KO R1 3:25 · UFC 316: Dvalishvili vs. O'Malley 2 · Jun 07, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Azamat Murzakanov 1 27 of 36 75% 29 of 38 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:27
Brendson Ribeiro 0 8 of 22 36% 8 of 22 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Azamat Murzakanov 1 27 of 36 75% 29 of 38 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:27
Brendson Ribeiro 0 8 of 22 36% 8 of 22 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Azamat Murzakanov 27 of 36 75% 23 of 32 4 of 4 0 of 0 7 of 10 0 of 0 20 of 26
Brendson Ribeiro 8 of 22 36% 3 of 16 2 of 2 3 of 4 8 of 22 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Azamat Murzakanov 27 of 36 75% 23 of 32 4 of 4 0 of 0 7 of 10 0 of 0 20 of 26
Brendson Ribeiro 8 of 22 36% 3 of 16 2 of 2 3 of 4 8 of 22 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jun 1, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Azamat Murzakanov

Angelo picks Azamat Murzakanov confidently, noting his power, wrestling, and durability. He highlights that Azamat has a knockdown in all five UFC fights and showed a second gear when rocked by Alonzo Menifield. He thinks Brendson Ribeiro is hittable and has a quit button. He includes Azamat in a parlay as one of his most confident picks.

Parlayed with Yoo Joo-sang.
"Azimat Makonov is the pick. I do have him in a parlay."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Jun 3, 2025 (4 days before fight)
Azamat Murzakanov

Big Brady is confident in Murzakanov despite his age (jokes he is in his 70s). He praises Murzakanov's striking and well-rounded game, and thinks Ribeiro is hittable and doesn't like getting hit. He expects Murzakanov to find a knockout early, possibly in the first round, noting his history of second- and third-round KOs but thinking this one comes sooner.

Murzakanov by KO in round 1
"I think Mzakana probably puts this guy to sleep. So I'm going to take uh the old man Ozamot Mzakonov. He's 90 years old, but I think he gets it done. I think he gets it done by first round …"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Jun 4, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Azamat Murzakanov

The fight might be closer than the odds indicate, especially if Murzakanov leans on his striking. Ribeiro has a huge height and reach advantage that could cause trouble, but Murzakanov is expected to eventually get to his grappling and find a ground-and-pound finish.

win by ground and pound
"I think it's just a matter of time before Makonov decides to get to his grappling, eventually taking this fight to the ground and finding that ground and pound finish."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jun 4, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Azamat Murzakanov

The MMA Guru picks Azamat Murzakanov, praising his deceptive speed, composure, and power. He compares his striking to Fedor and notes he beat Dustin Jacoby and destroyed Yorgan De Castro. He believes Murzakanov sets traps and will finish Ribeiro by TKO in round one or two. He calls the matchmaking dumb as Murzakanov is a level above.

Finish prediction: TKO in round one or two.
"I'm going to go with Azamat Makanov. I just think his striking's too quick."
Submission R2 1:28 · UFC Fight Night: Vettori vs. Dolidze 2 · Mar 15, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Diyar Nurgozhay 0 17 of 39 43% 20 of 42 2 of 2 100% 0 0 0:49
Brendson Ribeiro 1 28 of 58 48% 29 of 60 0 of 1 0% 1 1 0:14
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Diyar Nurgozhay 0 15 of 35 42% 16 of 36 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Brendson Ribeiro 1 23 of 50 46% 24 of 52 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:11
2 Diyar Nurgozhay 0 2 of 4 50% 4 of 6 2 of 2 100% 0 0 0:49
Brendson Ribeiro 0 5 of 8 62% 5 of 8 0 of 0 --- 1 1 0:03
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Diyar Nurgozhay 17 of 39 43% 5 of 21 7 of 13 5 of 5 16 of 36 1 of 3 0 of 0
Brendson Ribeiro 28 of 58 48% 13 of 35 5 of 10 10 of 13 28 of 58 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Diyar Nurgozhay 15 of 35 42% 4 of 19 7 of 12 4 of 4 14 of 32 1 of 3 0 of 0
Brendson Ribeiro 23 of 50 46% 12 of 32 5 of 9 6 of 9 23 of 50 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Diyar Nurgozhay 2 of 4 50% 1 of 2 0 of 1 1 of 1 2 of 4 0 of 0 0 of 0
Brendson Ribeiro 5 of 8 62% 1 of 3 0 of 1 4 of 4 5 of 8 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Mar 9, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Diyar Nurgozhay

Angelo picks Diyar Nurgozhay over Brendson Ribeiro. He is very high on Nurgozhay as a prospect, praising his wrestling, finishing ability, and quality wins. He notes Ribeiro is hittable and has a quit button. Angelo recommends betting on Nurgozhay now before the line skyrockets.

"Dr is going to be the pick and I would bet on him now before this line absolutely Skyrock."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Mar 10, 2025 (5 days before fight)
Diyar Nurgozhay

Big Brady picks Diyar Nurgozhay, praising his wrestling, vicious ground and pound, and power. He is not sold on Brendson Ribeiro, citing poor striking defense, durability, ground game, and heart, noting that Ribeiro's loss to Magomed Gadzhiyasulov is aging poorly. Brady believes if Nurgozhay gets on top, he will pound Ribeiro out. He predicts a second-round knockout for Nurgozhay.

Nurgozhay second round KO
"I like nuro here... nuro second round KO."
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Aug 6, 2025 (fight day)

Cody picks Jean Matsumoto, citing his youth, volume, and improved wrestling. He notes that Miles Johns has abandoned his wrestling and is low volume. He believes Matsumoto's performance against Rob Font showed he can compete at a higher level and that he will outwork Johns.

"John Masumoto, meanwhile, he's six years younger, right? 25 versus 31, but he he was 16 and0 prior to the Rob Font fight. Rob Font fought half of the best guys in the division. He's a 10-year vet, very tricky, …"
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Mar 13, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Diyar Nurgozhay

Connor agrees, describing Nurgozhay as a pillar-like fighter with Sambo timing and a devastating uppercut. He notes that Ribeiro is a classic light heavyweight with all power and no breaks, and that he will likely get caught by Nurgozhay's counters. He also mentions that Nurgozhay is durable and has a coherent striking game.

"I suspect Habero unless he gets very lucky is going to get nuked."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert picked Jan 31, 2024 (409 days before fight)

Daniel does not make a clear pick for this fight. He discusses the matchup briefly but does not state a preference or bet.

MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Mar 12, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Diyar Nurgozhay

The host believes Nurgozhay will walk through Ribeiro using a grapple-heavy approach, taking him down and finding a dominant position to finish.

finish
"I believe noazi will walk through hio in this matchup utilizing his grapple heavy approach taking hio to the ground and eventually finding a dominant enough position to find the finish."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Aug 6, 2025 (fight day)

Paul picks Matsumoto, noting that Miles Johns has been trying to strike more but lacks volume and power. He believes Matsumoto's wrestling and volume will be too much for Johns, who has not been using his wrestling effectively.

"Pick for me is Jean Matsumoto. Your thoughts?"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Mar 14, 2025 (1 day before fight)
Diyar Nurgozhay

The MMA Guru picks Diyar Nurgozhay, citing his well-rounded game, power, and submission ability. He notes Nurgozhay has a win over a PFL winner and knocked out a guy on the Contender Series with a head kick. He criticizes Brendson Ribeiro's mixed results, including a loss to Mingyang Zhang, and thinks Nurgozhay will knock him out on the feet. He predicts a first-round TKO debut win.

First round TKO
"I'm going to go with the momentum of uh nurer I think for this fight and I'm gonna say TKO win in the first round big debut win"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Mar 13, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Diyar Nurgozhay

Zane picks Nurgozhay as a top light heavyweight prospect with a complete game. He notes that Nurgozhay has excellent counter-striking, particularly his uppercut, and that Ribeiro is formless and likely to get nuked. He compares Nurgozhay to Ankalaev in terms of patience and defensive boxing, and notes that Ribeiro has been knocked out in three of his four recent losses.

Odds: Nurgozhay opened -249, now -368; Ribeiro opened +201, now +284. Zane says it could be wider.
"Nurgle is a genuinely good pickup for the UFC... I don't think it's even too soon for him right now."
WIN vs Caio Machado
Decision (split) (29–28, 28–29, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Moreno vs. Albazi · Nov 02, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Brendson Ribeiro 0 76 of 184 41% 79 of 187 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Caio Machado 0 49 of 131 37% 49 of 131 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Brendson Ribeiro 0 22 of 43 51% 22 of 43 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Caio Machado 0 16 of 34 47% 16 of 34 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Brendson Ribeiro 0 22 of 58 37% 22 of 58 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Caio Machado 0 12 of 36 33% 12 of 36 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Brendson Ribeiro 0 32 of 83 38% 35 of 86 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Caio Machado 0 21 of 61 34% 21 of 61 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Brendson Ribeiro 76 of 184 41% 24 of 114 33 of 47 19 of 23 76 of 184 0 of 0 0 of 0
Caio Machado 49 of 131 37% 25 of 93 16 of 25 8 of 13 49 of 130 0 of 1 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Brendson Ribeiro 22 of 43 51% 3 of 21 7 of 10 12 of 12 22 of 43 0 of 0 0 of 0
Caio Machado 16 of 34 47% 6 of 21 5 of 6 5 of 7 16 of 34 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Brendson Ribeiro 22 of 58 37% 6 of 31 11 of 18 5 of 9 22 of 58 0 of 0 0 of 0
Caio Machado 12 of 36 33% 5 of 22 4 of 9 3 of 5 12 of 36 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Brendson Ribeiro 32 of 83 38% 15 of 62 15 of 19 2 of 2 32 of 83 0 of 0 0 of 0
Caio Machado 21 of 61 34% 14 of 50 7 of 10 0 of 1 21 of 60 0 of 1 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Oct 27, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Caio Machado

Angelo picks Caio Machado as the cleaner fighter with more ways to win. He notes Machado is well-rounded, has volume and footwork, good clinch work, and underrated BJJ. He acknowledges Brendson Ribeiro could come in wild and connect, but outside of that, Machado is the better fighter. He shares a funny anecdote about accidentally messaging Machado instead of another fighter.

"I think Kyle should win he's the cleaner fighter he's more buttoned up he has more ways to win obviously Breon could come in wild and connect but outside of that Kyle's just the better fighter so Kyle's going to …"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Oct 30, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Caio Machado

Big Brady picks Caio Machado to win by decision. He notes that Ribeiro has poor cardio (about 7.5 minutes of gas) and that Machado, moving down from heavyweight, should have better cardio and volume. Brady thinks Machado can take over as the fight progresses, either by outworking Ribeiro on the feet or by taking him down. He mentions Ribeiro's takedown defense looked awful in his last fight.

"I'm going Machado here I'm going Machado to win this fight by decision"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Oct 30, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Caio Machado

Cody picks Caio Machado, noting his improved physique at light heavyweight and his volume striking. He criticizes Ribeiro as a glass cannon with poor cardio and durability, and believes Machado's cardio, volume, and grappling advantage will allow him to outwork Ribeiro. He also mentions Machado's experience and the favorable judging in Canada.

over 1.5 rounds
"I think Machado will either win the decision or just beat him late when he Fades so sign me up for bigfoot first time ever I'm back at him."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Lean picked Oct 30, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Caio Machado

Daniel Vreeland picks Caio Machado to win his light heavyweight debut, despite acknowledging his poor technique. He notes that Brendson Ribeiro has a questionable chin and heart, getting hurt in every fight and covering up when in trouble. Vreeland believes Machado's toughness and willingness to push through adversity will overcome Ribeiro's technical edge, especially since Ribeiro has shown a tendency to quit.

"I'm gonna go Kyle Machado to come out here and win his uh light heavyweight debut"
LU
Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Oct 30, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Brendson Ribeiro

Lucrative James picks Brendson Ribeiro, citing his early finishing upside and Machado's questionable durability. He notes Machado is moving down from heavyweight, which may zap his speed advantage, and that Ribeiro has power to finish early. He also mentions Ribeiro's poor fight IQ and cardio but believes he can get the win.

"I'm going to pick Brendan rero in this fight or Brenson rero I should say"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Oct 31, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Caio Machado

Machado is going down to light heavyweight for the first time after starting 0-2 in the UFC, but this is a winnable fight where he should have the overall advantage and grind Ribeiro out, winning on the scorecards.

"I do think this is a very winnable fight for him where he should be able to have the overall advantage and grind Ribeiro out winning this fight on the scorecards."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Oct 30, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Caio Machado

Paul also picks Machado, citing his volume and cardio advantage over Ribeiro, who he sees as a power puncher with questionable durability. He notes that Machado has looked better at light heavyweight and should be able to outwork Ribeiro. He also mentions the over 1.5 rounds prop as a possibility.

over 1.5 rounds
"I think Machado will either win the decision or just beat him late when he Fades so sign me up for bigfoot first time ever I'm back at him."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Oct 31, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Brendson Ribeiro

The Guru picks Brendson Ribeiro over Caio Machado, though he expresses disdain for heavyweights. He notes Ribeiro's close loss to Gadzhi Omargadzhiev and believes regional heavyweights are better athletes. He predicts a TKO win for Ribeiro.

TKO
"I'm going to go with Brenson riro getting a TKO win over Machado"
Decision (majority) (29–28, 29–28, 28–28) R3 5:00 · UFC on ABC: Whittaker vs. Aliskerov · Jun 22, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Magomed Gadzhiyasulov 0 26 of 39 66% 93 of 135 5 of 5 100% 0 0 9:59
Brendson Ribeiro 0 17 of 35 48% 29 of 51 3 of 6 50% 1 1 1:56
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Magomed Gadzhiyasulov 0 8 of 11 72% 29 of 42 1 of 1 100% 0 0 1:43
Brendson Ribeiro 0 11 of 22 50% 14 of 29 3 of 5 60% 0 0 1:36
2 Magomed Gadzhiyasulov 0 11 of 18 61% 33 of 53 1 of 1 100% 0 0 3:41
Brendson Ribeiro 0 5 of 10 50% 8 of 13 0 of 0 --- 1 1 0:20
3 Magomed Gadzhiyasulov 0 7 of 10 70% 31 of 40 3 of 3 100% 0 0 4:35
Brendson Ribeiro 0 1 of 3 33% 7 of 9 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Magomed Gadzhiyasulov 26 of 39 66% 15 of 25 4 of 4 7 of 10 12 of 23 4 of 4 10 of 12
Brendson Ribeiro 17 of 35 48% 6 of 19 4 of 4 7 of 12 13 of 29 3 of 5 1 of 1
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Magomed Gadzhiyasulov 8 of 11 72% 1 of 3 3 of 3 4 of 5 4 of 7 4 of 4 0 of 0
Brendson Ribeiro 11 of 22 50% 5 of 14 2 of 2 4 of 6 7 of 16 3 of 5 1 of 1
2 Magomed Gadzhiyasulov 11 of 18 61% 7 of 12 1 of 1 3 of 5 7 of 13 0 of 0 4 of 5
Brendson Ribeiro 5 of 10 50% 0 of 2 2 of 2 3 of 6 5 of 10 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Magomed Gadzhiyasulov 7 of 10 70% 7 of 10 0 of 0 0 of 0 1 of 3 0 of 0 6 of 7
Brendson Ribeiro 1 of 3 33% 1 of 3 0 of 0 0 of 0 1 of 3 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jun 20, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Magomed Gadzhiyasulov

Angelo picks Magomed but expresses skepticism about the wide odds, noting Magomed's record includes many 'fake fights' on carpet in hotel lobbies. He acknowledges Magomed has solid striking, wrestling, and body work, but Ribeiro is dangerous and hitable. He decided not to include Magomed in the safety parlay due to the debut factor and unproven competition. He still expects Magomed to win because Ribeiro gets hit too much and has a quit button.

Not in safety parlay due to debut; $9,300 DraftKings salary mentioned
"maged should win this fight he's going to be the pick he's got power he's got long kicks got wrestling but Brenson can be dangerous hitable but dangerous"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Jun 19, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Magomed Gadzhiyasulov

Big Brady picks Magomed Gadzhiyasulov because he believes he has more paths to victory: on the feet with a big shot or on the ground with a TKO. He questions Ribeiro's durability, noting he has been finished five times, often in the first round. While Gadzhiyasulov's competition has been low-level, Brady thinks his skills are sufficient to exploit Ribeiro's weaknesses. He predicts a second-round TKO.

win by second round TKO
"I'm going to take the guy who I think has more pass to Victory and that's going to be gaji lulov I'll take him to win this fight by second round TKO"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Jun 19, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Magomed Gadzhiyasulov

Cody picks Gadzhiyasulov but suggests the over 1.5 rounds as a better play. He notes Gadzhiyasulov is a decision machine with questionable finishing ability, while Ribeiro is a glass cannon who either wins early or loses early. He expects Gadzhiyasulov to grind out a win past the first round.

over 1.5 rounds
"I think he wins I don't love the money line you want to get greasy with it the over one and a half plus 200 certainly got some value"
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Lean picked Jun 20, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Magomed Gadzhiyasulov

Daniel Vreeland leans with Magomed Gadzhiyasulov but is unsure due to unknowns. He notes Gadzhiyasulov's wrestling and grinding style, while Ribeiro is a banger with power but a questionable chin. He expects Gadzhiyasulov to win a decision but acknowledges Ribeiro's knockout potential.

"I'll lean with the favorite but I don't know I don't know"
JA
Jacob Lines Expert Hesitant picked Jun 20, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Magomed Gadzhiyasulov

Jacob agrees Magomed should win as the more technical and tactical fighter, but warns that Ribeiro is a dangerous puncher who will give himself a chance. He notes Magomed has wrestling as a plan B if he feels pressure, but if he eats a clean shot he could get put out. Jacob calls Magomed a 'parlay buster' waiting to happen and says picks and bets are different—he picks Magomed but understands betting on Ribeiro for the KO.

"Magan bed's that guy that this week should win could look like a minus 500 favorite if he does it or it's going to be a [ __ ] parlay Buster when he get [ __ ] sparked"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Jun 19, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Magomed Gadzhiyasulov

JP picks Godzilla (Gadzhiyasulov) by decision, noting his undefeated record and Ribeiro's recent loss. He highlights Ribeiro's reach advantage but believes Godzilla's wrestling and control will be decisive. Brevan adds that Godzilla's Dagestani wrestling base gives him a huge ground advantage, though he warns about Godzilla's tendency to back up and engage in unnecessary exchanges, which could open a window for Ribeiro to land a KO. Both expect a decision win for Godzilla.

"I'm gonna pick Godzilla by probably decision because both of these guys what he's got three wins by decision the other guy's losses by a decision"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Jun 19, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Magomed Gadzhiyasulov

Paul picks Gadzhiyasulov, citing his wrestling and control. He notes Ribeiro's only path is a first-round knockout, but Gadzhiyasulov's style should neutralize that. He acknowledges the danger early but expects a win.

"I think gadzi YULA wins here"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jun 18, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Magomed Gadzhiyasulov

The MMA Guru picks Magomed Gadzhiyasulov over Brendson Ribeiro, calling it straightforward. He notes that Ribeiro relies on KO power and reach but was recently knocked out by Mingyang Zhang. He believes Gadzhiyasulov is more technical on the feet and has a ground game, while Ribeiro has been KO'd in his last three losses. He expects a first-round finish, likely by TKO.

first round finish
"I think this is a pretty straightforward fight to predict dangerous dangerous [__] the pair of them nasty magam Med's really I think I would say a bit more technical on the fet okay whereas Brenson riro kind of just …"
LOSS vs Zhang Mingyang
KO (punches) R1 1:41 · UFC 298: Volkanovski vs. Topuria · Feb 17, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Zhang Mingyang 1 17 of 28 60% 17 of 28 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Brendson Ribeiro 0 14 of 31 45% 14 of 31 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Zhang Mingyang 1 17 of 28 60% 17 of 28 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Brendson Ribeiro 0 14 of 31 45% 14 of 31 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Zhang Mingyang 17 of 28 60% 13 of 19 2 of 5 2 of 4 14 of 25 0 of 0 3 of 3
Brendson Ribeiro 14 of 31 45% 14 of 31 0 of 0 0 of 0 14 of 31 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Zhang Mingyang 17 of 28 60% 13 of 19 2 of 5 2 of 4 14 of 25 0 of 0 3 of 3
Brendson Ribeiro 14 of 31 45% 14 of 31 0 of 0 0 of 0 14 of 31 0 of 0 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Mingyang Zhang vs. Brendson Ribeiro
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Zhang (-142), Ribeiro (+120)

Round 1
Opening up the ESPN prelims is likely to be an explosive one, as these two fighters come in with 31 finishes across their 31 pro wins. Zhang (16-6, 1-0 UFC) worked his way to the UFC courtesy of a spot on the Road to UFC qualifier, and Ribeiro (15-5, 1 NC; 0-0 UFC) is yet another DWCS pickup. With the majority of their combined victories via first-round stoppage, referee Mike Beltran cannot take his eyes off the prize for even a second. The light heavyweights hesitantly touch ‘em up, and Zhang moves forward to kick low to start off. Ribeiro swings for the bleachers, and when he comes up short, Zhang boots him in the ribs. Ribeiro flicks out a jab that stings Zhang, and Ribeiro is quick to follow with a one-two that stuns him and draws a smile from the Chinese contender. Ribeiro unloads a pair of punches, and Zhang stands right in front of him and is ready to hurl back with bad intentions. Ribeiro bloodies up Zhang’s mouth, and they both hurl huge shots at one another. Zhang takes a right hand on the eye socket, and he raises his arm to call time. Beltran tells him to keep fighting, and fight he does.
Zhang sticks out a jab, wings a right hook and chains it into a ferocious left hook that all land cleanly, and Ribeiro might be out before the back of his head bounces of the canvas. Just to seal the deal, Zhang drives down three jackhammering hammerfists, and Beltran recognizes that Ribeiro’s goose is cooked and waves the fight off.
In the hierarchy of the jungle, “Mountain Tiger” destroyed “Gorilla” tonight.

The Official Result
Mingyang Zhang def. Brendson Ribeiro R1 1:41 via KO (Punches)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Lean picked Feb 11, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Brendson Ribeiro

Angelo picks Brendson Ribeiro as the underdog, citing his more dangerous offense and Zhang's hollow record. He notes Ribeiro is hittable and can be finished, so he won't bet on him unless the line moves further. He thinks Ribeiro's aggression and power can get the job done.

"I'm going the dog here I like robero I think his offense is more the more dangerous of the two"
BI
Big Brady Expert Lean picked Feb 13, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Brendson Ribeiro

Big Brady picks Brendson Ribeiro as a dog, citing his significant reach advantage (6 inches) and power. He notes that Zhang Mingyang is hitable and has been knocked out three times. He acknowledges both fighters have red flags but believes Ribeiro's offense and length will be too much. He says nobody should be favored here and has low confidence.

Ribeiro by KO, round 1
"I will take the dog here in Brenson robero just because this guy is going to have a pretty significant reach six inch reach Advantage he hits very very hard"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Feb 14, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Brendson Ribeiro

Cody picks Ribeiro, recalling his terrifying appearance on Contender Series. He notes Zhang's loss to a fraudulent fighter (Oscar Mova) as a red flag. He believes Ribeiro's ground game gives him an edge if he can land first. He sees this as a dog-or-pass fight and takes the plus money.

under 1.5 rounds (expected to be juiced)
"I'll go with the devil I know in the fact that like Brenson robero for 15 or he was 14 and five going into Contender series like I watched him and I'm like that's a dangerous man..."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Feb 14, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Brendson Ribeiro

Daniel picks Brendson Ribeiro as a dog. He dislikes Zhang's competition level, noting he has fought short heavy Chinese men he's never heard of. He also cites Zhang's inactivity (1.5 years). He likes Ribeiro's length, well-roundedness, and finishing ability. He acknowledges that Ribeiro's regional Brazilian competition isn't great either, but prefers his Contender Series performance over Zhang's Road to UFC wins.

"I'm going with the dog I'm going with hiier here um I really don't like jiang's competition when you look at it on paper... I like hi's length I like his well-roundedness obviously I like his finishing ability."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Lean picked Feb 13, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Brendson Ribeiro

Daniel Vreeland picks Brendson Ribeiro, favoring the Brazilian over the Chinese fighter. He notes Ribeiro's better level of competition, training at a good camp, and six-inch reach advantage. He believes both are hittable but expects Ribeiro to knock out Zhang. He does not recommend a big wager.

"I slightly favor Brenson as well... just give me Brazil over China in MMA."
JE
Jeff Fox Expert Confident picked Feb 14, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

Jeff picks Zhang Mingyang, disagreeing with Daniel. He was impressed by Zhang's performance on Road to UFC, where he beat George Tokos with sharp boxing and composure. He notes that Zhang's punches come in straight and he doesn't overextend, even when hurting opponents. In contrast, he criticizes Ribeiro for overextending on the Contender Series despite a reach advantage. He believes Zhang will pick Ribeiro apart and find a knockout.

"I'm gonna go with mingyang here and uh I you know I was in the same boat as you with mingy Yang's competition going into that road to the UFC fight... I was infinitely impressed."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Feb 15, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Brendson Ribeiro

Ribeiro is calm under pressure and can throw power from his back foot. His key is taking Mingyang to the mat, where he can find dominant positions and land big shots for a TKO. Expects a finish in the first or second round.

"I think his key to victory in this match will be able to take mingyang to the mat and from there he does great work in terms of finding the dominant position required to posture up and land big shots …"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Feb 14, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Brendson Ribeiro

Paul picks Ribeiro as a dog, noting both fighters are glass cannons with first-round finishes. He mentions Ribeiro's ground game and ability to swarm with ground and pound. He sees this as a classic dog-or-pass fight and takes the plus money on Ribeiro.

under 1.5 rounds (expected to be juiced)
"I got to go with rerel plus 125 Underdog someone's getting cracked I take the under on this thing the fight doesn't go the distance."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Feb 13, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Brendson Ribeiro

The MMA Guru picks Brendson Ribeiro, trusting his wins over better competition and his reach advantage (81 vs 75.5 inches). He notes Ribeiro's straight punches could counter Zhang's hooks. He worries about Zhang's ground game but trusts Ribeiro to get a KO. He also mentions Zhang's frustrating path to the UFC and Ribeiro's natural momentum.

"I am gonna go Brendson Ribeiro over Zhang Mingyang... I trust a western can over an Eastern can."
Expert Picks (9)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Lean picked Feb 11, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Brendson Ribeiro

Angelo picks Brendson Ribeiro as the underdog, citing his more dangerous offense and Zhang's hollow record. He notes Ribeiro is hittable and can be finished, so he won't bet on him unless the line moves further. He thinks Ribeiro's aggression and power can get the job done.

"I'm going the dog here I like robero I think his offense is more the more dangerous of the two"
BI
Big Brady Expert Lean picked Feb 13, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Brendson Ribeiro

Big Brady picks Brendson Ribeiro as a dog, citing his significant reach advantage (6 inches) and power. He notes that Zhang Mingyang is hitable and has been knocked out three times. He acknowledges both fighters have red flags but believes Ribeiro's offense and length will be too much. He says nobody should be favored here and has low confidence.

Ribeiro by KO, round 1
"I will take the dog here in Brenson robero just because this guy is going to have a pretty significant reach six inch reach Advantage he hits very very hard"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Feb 14, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Brendson Ribeiro

Cody picks Ribeiro, recalling his terrifying appearance on Contender Series. He notes Zhang's loss to a fraudulent fighter (Oscar Mova) as a red flag. He believes Ribeiro's ground game gives him an edge if he can land first. He sees this as a dog-or-pass fight and takes the plus money.

under 1.5 rounds (expected to be juiced)
"I'll go with the devil I know in the fact that like Brenson robero for 15 or he was 14 and five going into Contender series like I watched him and I'm like that's a dangerous man..."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Feb 14, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Brendson Ribeiro

Daniel picks Brendson Ribeiro as a dog. He dislikes Zhang's competition level, noting he has fought short heavy Chinese men he's never heard of. He also cites Zhang's inactivity (1.5 years). He likes Ribeiro's length, well-roundedness, and finishing ability. He acknowledges that Ribeiro's regional Brazilian competition isn't great either, but prefers his Contender Series performance over Zhang's Road to UFC wins.

"I'm going with the dog I'm going with hiier here um I really don't like jiang's competition when you look at it on paper... I like hi's length I like his well-roundedness obviously I like his finishing ability."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Lean picked Feb 13, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Brendson Ribeiro

Daniel Vreeland picks Brendson Ribeiro, favoring the Brazilian over the Chinese fighter. He notes Ribeiro's better level of competition, training at a good camp, and six-inch reach advantage. He believes both are hittable but expects Ribeiro to knock out Zhang. He does not recommend a big wager.

"I slightly favor Brenson as well... just give me Brazil over China in MMA."
JE
Jeff Fox Expert Confident picked Feb 14, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Zhang Mingyang

Jeff picks Zhang Mingyang, disagreeing with Daniel. He was impressed by Zhang's performance on Road to UFC, where he beat George Tokos with sharp boxing and composure. He notes that Zhang's punches come in straight and he doesn't overextend, even when hurting opponents. In contrast, he criticizes Ribeiro for overextending on the Contender Series despite a reach advantage. He believes Zhang will pick Ribeiro apart and find a knockout.

"I'm gonna go with mingyang here and uh I you know I was in the same boat as you with mingy Yang's competition going into that road to the UFC fight... I was infinitely impressed."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Feb 15, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Brendson Ribeiro

Ribeiro is calm under pressure and can throw power from his back foot. His key is taking Mingyang to the mat, where he can find dominant positions and land big shots for a TKO. Expects a finish in the first or second round.

"I think his key to victory in this match will be able to take mingyang to the mat and from there he does great work in terms of finding the dominant position required to posture up and land big shots to tko's opponents"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Feb 14, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Brendson Ribeiro

Paul picks Ribeiro as a dog, noting both fighters are glass cannons with first-round finishes. He mentions Ribeiro's ground game and ability to swarm with ground and pound. He sees this as a classic dog-or-pass fight and takes the plus money on Ribeiro.

under 1.5 rounds (expected to be juiced)
"I got to go with rerel plus 125 Underdog someone's getting cracked I take the under on this thing the fight doesn't go the distance."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Feb 13, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Brendson Ribeiro

The MMA Guru picks Brendson Ribeiro, trusting his wins over better competition and his reach advantage (81 vs 75.5 inches). He notes Ribeiro's straight punches could counter Zhang's hooks. He worries about Zhang's ground game but trusts Ribeiro to get a KO. He also mentions Zhang's frustrating path to the UFC and Ribeiro's natural momentum.

"I am gonna go Brendson Ribeiro over Zhang Mingyang... I trust a western can over an Eastern can."