UFC Fight Night: Bautista vs. Oliveira · Feb 07, 2026 · Light Heavyweight · Completed
Prev Fight UFC Fight Night: Bautista vs. Oliveira Next Fight
Age 38
Height 6' 3"
Reach 76.0"
Weight 205 lbs.
Stance Orthodox
Age 27
Height 6' 4"
Reach 78.0"
Weight 205 lbs.
Stance Orthodox
Career Averages - Dustin Jacoby
5.4 SLpM
48.0% Str. Acc.
3.92 SApM
57.0% Str. Def.
0.32 TD Avg
25.0% TD Acc.
62.0% TD Def.
0.0 Sub. Avg
Career Averages - Julius Walker
3.73 SLpM
53.0% Str. Acc.
4.03 SApM
43.0% Str. Def.
4.09 TD Avg
38.0% TD Acc.
100.0% TD Def.
0.0 Sub. Avg
Dustin Jacoby - Fight History
SCHED vs Uran Satybaldiev
AJ
AJ DeVito Expert picked Jul 16, 2026 (9 days before fight)

AJ does not make a pick for this fight. He only mentions the fighters in passing when listing fights on the card, but offers no analysis or prediction.

"Guskov Tybura, do lots of Walker, Patterson, Jacoby. Wow."
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jul 19, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Angelo thinks Jacoby is the cleaner striker with better range management and technique, though he acknowledges Satybaldiev is more dangerous with wild kicks. He doubts Jacoby will get knocked out again and picks him despite the 2-to-1 odds.

"I do like him even though the odds are two to one. So Dustin Jacobe is the pick."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Jul 19, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Big Brady picks Jacoby to win by first-round knockout, citing his experience, kickboxing, volume, and cardio. He acknowledges Satybaldiev's power and danger, but believes Jacoby's durability is declining and Satybaldiev has a puncher's chance. He expects a car crash where someone goes to sleep, and favors Jacoby due to his superior level of competition.

first round knockout
"I'm going Dustin Jacobe to win this fight. I'm taking Jacobe to win this fight by first round knockout."
LU
Lucrative James Expert Lean picked Jul 19, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

James picks Jacoby to win by decision, but admits he hasn't tape studied Satybaldiev. He notes Jacoby is a veteran facing a short-notice opponent and that Satybaldiev trains with Guskov and Walker. He says he might look to fade Jacoby but passes due to lack of tape. He picks Jacoby based on being the favorite and more experienced.

Jacoby via decision
"I will pick Dustin Jacobe to win this fight via decision as my official prediction."
WIN vs Julius Walker
KO R2 1:42 · UFC Fight Night: Bautista vs. Oliveira · Feb 07, 2026
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Dustin Jacoby 1 42 of 71 59% 47 of 79 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:59
Julius Walker 0 7 of 21 33% 12 of 26 3 of 7 42% 0 0 2:47
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Dustin Jacoby 0 13 of 20 65% 16 of 26 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:27
Julius Walker 0 5 of 15 33% 10 of 20 3 of 6 50% 0 0 2:29
2 Dustin Jacoby 1 29 of 51 56% 31 of 53 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:32
Julius Walker 0 2 of 6 33% 2 of 6 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:18
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Dustin Jacoby 42 of 71 59% 35 of 64 3 of 3 4 of 4 22 of 38 9 of 10 11 of 23
Julius Walker 7 of 21 33% 3 of 17 1 of 1 3 of 3 4 of 12 2 of 7 1 of 2
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Dustin Jacoby 13 of 20 65% 7 of 14 3 of 3 3 of 3 13 of 20 0 of 0 0 of 0
Julius Walker 5 of 15 33% 3 of 13 1 of 1 1 of 1 2 of 6 2 of 7 1 of 2
2 Dustin Jacoby 29 of 51 56% 28 of 50 0 of 0 1 of 1 9 of 18 9 of 10 11 of 23
Julius Walker 2 of 6 33% 0 of 4 0 of 0 2 of 2 2 of 6 0 of 0 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Dustin Jacoby ( 204.5) vs. Julius Walker
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Jacoby (-205); Walker (+175)

Round 1
A pair of 205ers who prefer the knockout will slug it out across this three-round main card opener. Jacoby (21-9-1, 9-6-1 UFC) will come in 11 years older and far more experience, while “Juice Box” Walker (7-1, 1-1 UFC) comes in with youthful exuberance full of something and vinegar. They tap their gloves together as referee Dan Miragliotta in his 500th UFC bout handles the particulars.
Walker takes the center of the cage, with Jacoby hand-fighting to find an opening. There is no opening found in the first 30 seconds, until Jacoby tosses out a jab. He aims another, as Walker responds with a low kick and a lancing straight right hand. The former kickboxer boots Walker in the lead leg, and he misses with a subsequent overhand right. Jacoby pounds the front leg with another kick. Walker reaches out with a right hand, and he gets knocked back to the fence with Jacoby’s swinging fists. Walker shoots for a takedown, with Jacoby defending by wrapping up an anaconda choke that is not particularly tight. Walker fights out of it and stands up without much concern, taking a jab on the way out. Jacoby swipes out a left hook, and Walker answers back with a one-two. Jacoby hits the front leg with another kick, and he is faced with a takedown shot.
Walker lifts Jacoby off the ground, carrying him over to his corner and dumping him down unceremoniously. With one hook in, Walker holds on from behind, but Jacoby is able to post off his hands and stands up. Walker clings to the ex-kickboxer, ignoring elbows to his face so he can set up a strong knee to the face. Walker lands a few more, much to Jacoby’s disappointing, lifting his leg up high to crash it square into the chin of “The Hanyak” a few more times. Walker hits a suplex to throw Jacoby to the floor, and Jacoby springs up like hit a trampoline. Walker knees Jacoby in the back of the thigh and drags him around the cage but is not able to ground him again on this effort. Walker transitions to a double, scooping Jacoby up like a child’s plaything and throwing him down much harder to the floor. This time, he hammers Jacoby with elbows, landing at least one well after the bell sounded.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Walker
Dayne Fox scores the round: 10-9 Walker
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Walker

Round 2
The light heavyweights touch gloves to lead off the round, with Jacoby peppering offense immediately after in the form of jabs and low kicks. Walker tries to stride in with a right hand, and Jacoby’s counter right sends Walker staggering back. Walker shakes out the cobwebs and beats on the front leg with another kick, only to take two huge punches on the side of the head. Walker hits his seat, and after a few more swings, Jacoby walks off, thinking his work here is done. Miragliotta gets close but does not wave it off, so Walker snatches up his ankle and forces Jacoby to hop away and re-engage. With Walker still down, Jacoby rails him with a thunderous uppercut that almost knocks him all the way out. Jacoby is not about to let him off the hook, raining down punches while Walker tries as hard as he can to sit up and stand. Walker goes all-out in pursuit of a single, pushing Jacoby back to the wall. Walker hangs on from behind, and Jacoby turns around and starts battering Walker on the side of the head with elbows. The damage begins to mount, and so does Jacoby, whose efforts force Walker to his back so he can climb into the dominant position.
Walker twists out of the precarious spot and turns to place his back to the wall while still seated, and Jacoby lays into his with strikes on both sides of the head. Walker miraculously stands up, and Jacoby’s onslaught knocks him right back down. Miragliotta determines that enough is enough, with blood streaming down Walker’s cheek, and waves the fight off.
For Jacoby, this was likely for the best, as he plops down on his stool when returning to his corner from near-total exhaustion. On cloud nine, the victor expresses his support for his country and current administration, asking for a place on the White House event in June and making a very unique callout. He calls for Donald Trump...to play a round of golf with him.

The Official Result
Dustin Jacoby def. Julius Walker R2 1:42 via TKO (Punches)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Feb 1, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Angelo picks Dustin Jacoby confidently, calling him too good of a striker and grappler with too much experience. He notes Jacoby's high-level kickboxing, technical striking, and solid takedown defense. He dismisses Julius Walker as sloppy and reliant on raw athleticism, and believes Jacoby will win easily. He hopes the odds are reasonable and will include Jacoby in parlays.

"Dustin Jacobe wins this fight. He's too good of a striker, too good of a grappler, has too much experience."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Feb 1, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Big Brady picks Dustin Jacoby, citing his superior striking and elite takedown defense. He notes that Julius Walker was pieced up by Raphael Sakara on the feet, which bodes poorly against a much better striker in Jacoby. He expects Jacoby to knock out Walker, likely in the first round.

by first round knockout
"I think Jacobe knocks him out. I'm going to go into Dustin Jacobe here. I think it's a first round knockout."
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Hesitant picked Feb 4, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Cody hesitantly picks Dustin Jacoby, acknowledging the experience gap but noting Jacoby's travel and short notice. He admits his heart wants Walker but struggles to overlook Jacoby's experience. Cody does not bet on Jacoby and expects a competitive fight.

"I haven't bet Dustin Jacobe. Everything in my being tells me to bet Dustin Jacobe."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Feb 5, 2026 (2 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Connor agrees with Zane, noting that Jacobi is still dangerous with single shots and that Walker's style of walking in will give Jacobi opportunities. He thinks Jacobi will respond with offense if put in a scary situation, but the fight could be a grind. He calls it a sucky fight between two failed experiments.

Same odds discussion.
"I'm going to pick Jacobi here."
LU
Lucrative James Expert Hesitant picked Feb 1, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Lucrative James picks Dustin Jacoby to win, citing his massive experience and striking advantage, as well as good takedown defense. However, he is hesitant due to Jacoby's age and potential chin decline. James notes that if Jacoby is an underdog, he would bet him, but he acknowledges Walker's grappling could be a threat.

"I'm gonna go with Dustin Jacobe for the win though, guys. And the reason is because he has too much of a experience advantage and a massive massive striking advantage and very good takedown defense."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Feb 3, 2026 (4 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

The host picks Jacoby by knockout, but notes reduced confidence due to Jacoby cornering a teammate in Australia a week before the fight. He believes Jacoby's superior striking and defensive grappling will allow him to pick Walker apart and eventually land a big shot. He expects Walker to struggle to get takedowns and be forced to strike, where Jacoby has the advantage.

knockout win
"So, give me Jacobe and Jacobe by knockout."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Feb 4, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Julius Walker

Paul picks Julius Walker as a dog, citing Jacoby's short notice, travel from Australia, and age (37). He notes Walker's youth, athleticism, and improvement, especially his wrestling. Paul believes Walker can take Jacoby down and control the fight, though he admits bias due to connections.

"I am actually going to end up taking a dog play on Julius Walker. Not super confident."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Feb 7, 2026 (fight day)
Dustin Jacoby

The host picks Dustin Jacoby over Julius Walker. He thinks Jacoby is underrated, citing his win over Vitor Petrino and competitive fight with Azamat Murzakanov. He notes Walker looked sloppy against Rafael Cacara. He predicts a decision win for Jacoby, 29-28 or 30-27.

decision 29-28 or 30-27
"I'm going to go with Jacoby. I think he's on a level another level of experience to Julius Walker."
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Feb 5, 2026 (2 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Zane picks Jacoby because he is a good technical kickboxer who can finish with single shots. He notes that Walker is tough but walks in with his chin up and feet flat, making him vulnerable. However, he warns that Jacoby's hesitancy could make the fight ugly, similar to his fight against Alonzo Menifield.

Jacoby opened at -135, currently -185; Walker opened at +115, currently +160.
"I'm going to pick Dustin Jacobi."
WIN vs Bruno Lopes
KO R1 1:50 · UFC Fight Night: Blanchfield vs. Barber · May 31, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Dustin Jacoby 1 17 of 29 58% 17 of 30 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:30
Bruno Lopes 0 3 of 9 33% 5 of 12 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Dustin Jacoby 1 17 of 29 58% 17 of 30 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:30
Bruno Lopes 0 3 of 9 33% 5 of 12 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Dustin Jacoby 17 of 29 58% 16 of 28 0 of 0 1 of 1 11 of 21 6 of 8 0 of 0
Bruno Lopes 3 of 9 33% 1 of 4 1 of 2 1 of 3 2 of 7 1 of 2 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Dustin Jacoby 17 of 29 58% 16 of 28 0 of 0 1 of 1 11 of 21 6 of 8 0 of 0
Bruno Lopes 3 of 9 33% 1 of 4 1 of 2 1 of 3 2 of 7 1 of 2 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked May 18, 2025 (13 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Angelo picks Dustin Jacoby as the better striker with good takedown defense, but plants a seed of doubt about Jacoby's ability to handle forward pressure. He notes that Jacoby was losing to Vitor Petrino before a comeback KO, and that Bruno Lopes pressures forward well. He advises caution but believes Jacoby wins.

Warns against overexposure in parlays.
"I'm going to pick Dustin here because he is the better striker and he's got very good takedown defense."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked May 26, 2025 (5 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Big Brady picks Dustin Jacoby, believing Bruno Lopes is reckless on the feet and leaves openings. He notes Lopes has a path via grappling but doubts he will use it, citing Lopes' tendency to stand and trade. Jacoby has good get-up game and is hard to hold down. Brady predicts Jacoby will clip Lopes and knock him out in the first round, as Jacoby has many first-round KOs.

first round knockout
"I'll go Dustin Jacobe here. And I think it's early. I think Dustin Jacobe gets a first round knockout."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Lean picked May 29, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Bruno Lopes

Connor also picks Lopes, citing that Jacoby's chin issues have made him hesitant and his game has lost its structure. Lopes, despite being a brawler, has a clear goal and is confident in his aggression. Connor notes that Jacoby used to be able to adjust to wrestlers, but now he seems aimless, making Lopes the safer pick.

"Yeah, also that Jacoby has historically had issues with wrestlers. Yeah. And, you know, he used to be able to adjust to that and, and, and start getting a read on the takedowns and doing a better job of enforcing …"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked May 29, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Matt picks Dustin Jacoby to win by decision. He notes that Jacoby is a volume-based striker with good takedown defense, while Lopes is a BJJ black belt who struggles against better strikers. Jacoby should outwork Lopes on the feet, though his durability is a concern. Matt likes the decision prop at +250.

Jacoby by decision +250, Lopes by decision +480, Lopes by KO +400, fight goes to decision +125
"I'm going to pick Jacobe. I I think he wins this fight."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked May 28, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

The MMA Guru picks Dustin Jacoby by TKO in rounds 2 or 3. He believes Jacoby's striking is too technical for Bruno Lopes, who has power but is less impressive. He notes Jacoby's good chin and ability to recover, and sees a kickboxing advantage. He predicts Jacoby will piece up Lopes after a shaky first round.

TKO in rounds 2 or 3
"I think Jacob is very underrated... I think he beats Bruno Lopez... I got Jacob by TKO in rounds two or three."
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Lean picked May 29, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Bruno Lopes

Zane picks Lopes because Jacoby's game has deteriorated significantly; he no longer fights with a clear plan, hesitates, and does wacky things like switching stances needlessly. Lopes, while limited, at least has a simple game plan of aggression, either brawling or pushing to the cage and looking for takedowns. Zane notes that Jacoby historically had issues with wrestlers, and his current indecisiveness makes him vulnerable to Lopes' pressure.

"I think I have to pick Lopez. Yeah. I think I'm kind of feeling that too. He at least want his, what his game still clearly at least seems to revolve around aggression, even if that aggression is just putting …"
WIN vs Vitor Petrino
KO (punch) R3 3:44 · UFC on ESPN: Covington vs. Buckley · Dec 14, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Dustin Jacoby 0 40 of 96 41% 40 of 96 0 of 4 0% 0 0 0:40
Vitor Petrino 1 45 of 96 46% 47 of 100 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:20
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Dustin Jacoby 0 10 of 26 38% 10 of 26 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:02
Vitor Petrino 0 12 of 32 37% 12 of 32 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:04
2 Dustin Jacoby 0 19 of 47 40% 19 of 47 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Vitor Petrino 0 18 of 36 50% 18 of 36 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Dustin Jacoby 0 11 of 23 47% 11 of 23 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:38
Vitor Petrino 1 15 of 28 53% 17 of 32 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:16
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Dustin Jacoby 40 of 96 41% 27 of 79 6 of 7 7 of 10 40 of 96 0 of 0 0 of 0
Vitor Petrino 45 of 96 46% 23 of 69 7 of 9 15 of 18 39 of 87 5 of 8 1 of 1
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Dustin Jacoby 10 of 26 38% 5 of 19 2 of 2 3 of 5 10 of 26 0 of 0 0 of 0
Vitor Petrino 12 of 32 37% 5 of 22 1 of 2 6 of 8 8 of 25 4 of 7 0 of 0
2 Dustin Jacoby 19 of 47 40% 16 of 42 2 of 3 1 of 2 19 of 47 0 of 0 0 of 0
Vitor Petrino 18 of 36 50% 8 of 24 3 of 4 7 of 8 18 of 36 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Dustin Jacoby 11 of 23 47% 6 of 18 2 of 2 3 of 3 11 of 23 0 of 0 0 of 0
Vitor Petrino 15 of 28 53% 10 of 23 3 of 3 2 of 2 13 of 26 1 of 1 1 of 1
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Dec 8, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Vitor Petrino

Angelo picks Petrino because he hits hard and Jacoby's chin is declining. He notes Petrino's power, evolving grappling, and takedowns, while Jacoby is a high-level kickboxer with okay power and 60% takedown defense. He expresses concern about Petrino's smiling reaction after his submission loss to Anthony Smith, but believes it was a fluke. He thinks Jacoby could turn it into a dogfight but Petrino's power is the difference.

"I am going to pick patrino here because he hits so damn hard and Dustin's chin doesn't seem to be what it once was."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Dec 12, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Vitor Petrino

Big Brady picks Vitor Petrino to win by decision. He thinks Petrino is younger, improving, and has more ways to win, including power and takedowns. He notes Jacoby has been dropped often and was recently knocked out by Reyes. He expects Petrino to mix in takedowns and land big shots, but not finish.

"I'll say patrino mixes in the takedowns maybe land some big shots here and there maybe drops jacobe because jacobe likes getting dropped but I'll say patrino does enough to win a decision"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Dec 11, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Vitor Petrino

Cody picks Vitor Petrino but with low confidence, noting his poor gas tank and green technique. He believes Petrino will rely on takedowns and top control to win rounds, but Jacoby's striking advantage could be problematic. Cody suggests a live bet on Jacoby after the first round if Petrino tires.

Over 1.5 rounds (-167), fight goes to decision (+170)
"I'm willing to take the dog shot on Covington and Bruno Silva but I'm going to pass on this jacobe one."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Dec 12, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Connor picks Jacoby as well, agreeing that Petrino's new style is ineffective. He notes that Petrino's game is 'empty' and that Jacoby is a good outboxer who can take advantage. However, Connor also worries about Jacoby's durability, citing his knockout loss to Reyes and shaky moments against Alonzo Menifield.

Jacoby opened at +212, now +254; Petrino opened at -247, now -303
"I'm picking Jacobi as well, but, uh, odd that the odds are against him."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Dec 12, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Vitor Petrino

Daniel Vreeland picks Vitor Petrino to get back on track after his loss to Anthony Smith. He acknowledges Dustin Jacoby's technical kickboxing but worries about Jacoby's durability and tendency to get hurt. Vreeland believes Petrino's freak athleticism and power can change the fight with one shot, even if he's being outpointed. He also notes Petrino can mix in takedowns if needed.

"I'm going go with vtor patrino to come out here and uh get back on track"
LU
Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Dec 11, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Vitor Petrino

Lucrative James picks Vitor Petrino to win, citing Petrino's multiple paths to victory including knockout and grappling. He notes Jacoby's kickboxing background and takedown defense, but believes Petrino's physicality and raw power will be too much. He expresses low interest in betting the fight unless prop odds are wide, but confidently predicts Petrino as the winner.

"I do think berrino wins I do think he's the better fighter I think that he's got way more ways to win."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Dec 12, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Vitor Petrino

Petrino will crash the pocket effectively and land big shots on Jacoby, who struggles against opponents with big power. The finish is expected within the first two rounds.

wins in round 1 or 2
"I do believe patrino will be able to crash the pocket effectively here and that will allow him to land those big shots on jacobe who just can't seem to get out of the way of opponents with big Power …"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Dec 11, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Paul picks Dustin Jacoby as an underdog, citing Petrino's struggles against strikers and Jacoby's striking volume. He notes that Petrino's takedowns are his only path, but Jacoby's takedown defense and ability to get back up could neutralize that. Paul is surprised Petrino is such a big favorite.

"I'm surprised that he's such a big favorite like um there does seem to be some action coming in on the jacobe side."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Lean picked Dec 11, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

The MMA Guru picks Dustin Jacoby as an underdog, questioning why he is such a big underdog. He notes Jacoby's kickboxing experience and ability to invest in strikes, though he acknowledges Jacoby's chin has let him down. He believes Petrino's win over Smith was unimpressive (guillotine) and that Jacoby's layers and conditioning will give him an edge. He admits the oddsmakers might know something he doesn't.

underdog bet (implied odds comment)
"I'm going to go Dustin jacobe in his kickboxing experience being able to invest enough and do enough to patrino"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Dec 12, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Zane picks Jacoby because Petrino has abandoned his effective bullying style for a technical out-fighting game that doesn't work. He notes that Petrino's recent losses to Anthony Smith and Tyson Pedro show he has no plan, and Jacoby should have plenty of time and space to outbox him. However, Zane is concerned about Jacoby's chin and age.

Jacoby opened at +212, now +254; Petrino opened at -247, now -303; Zane says the odds are 'too wide on Petrino'
"I'm still picking him against Vito Petrino, because Petrino's game as it stands right now is just empty."
LOSS vs Dominick Reyes
KO (punches) R1 2:00 · UFC on ESPN: Cannonier vs. Imavov · Jun 08, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Dominick Reyes 2 20 of 33 60% 20 of 33 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:03
Dustin Jacoby 0 6 of 16 37% 6 of 16 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Dominick Reyes 2 20 of 33 60% 20 of 33 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:03
Dustin Jacoby 0 6 of 16 37% 6 of 16 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Dominick Reyes 20 of 33 60% 15 of 26 3 of 4 2 of 3 16 of 24 2 of 3 2 of 6
Dustin Jacoby 6 of 16 37% 1 of 7 0 of 1 5 of 8 6 of 16 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Dominick Reyes 20 of 33 60% 15 of 26 3 of 4 2 of 3 16 of 24 2 of 3 2 of 6
Dustin Jacoby 6 of 16 37% 1 of 7 0 of 1 5 of 8 6 of 16 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jun 7, 2024 (1 day before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Angelo picks Dustin Jacoby, believing Dominick Reyes is done after three knockout losses. He notes that Reyes hasn't won in years and his chin is compromised. Jacoby is a high-level kickboxer who can outpoint Reyes. He thinks the sport has passed Reyes by, and Jacoby's technical striking will be too much.

"I think Dustin jacobe wins this fight while he is a very high level technical kickboxer"
BI
Big Brady Expert Lean picked Jun 5, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Big Brady picks Dustin Jacoby to win by decision with little confidence. He questions whether Dominick Reyes is washed, noting his losses to Jon Jones, Jan Blachowicz, and Jiri Prochazka are not bad, but the Ryan Spann KO is concerning. He thinks Jacoby might be the minute winner but has been disappointing in fights like the Menifield loss. He calls it a total pass and advises against betting.

"I'm taking Dustin jacobe to win this fight I'll take him to Win It by decision but I want nothing to do with this one"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Jun 5, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Dominick Reyes

Cody picks Reyes as a greasy underdog, noting that Reyes has faced elite competition and his four-fight losing streak includes fights against Jon Jones (arguably a win), Jan Błachowicz, and Jiri Prochazka. He believes Reyes' power and durability could be a problem for Jacoby, who is a decision fighter prone to close losses. Cody thinks the year and a half off may have helped Reyes recover his chin, and he expects a close fight that could go Reyes' way via split decision.

Dominick Reyes to win by split or majority decision
"I have to take a couple greasy dogs and Rees is one of those greasy dogs so I'll take Dom Rees and just hope to God that the year off the couple years off the time off I should say …"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Jun 5, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Daniel is confident in Jacoby because he believes Reyes has never recovered mentally or physically from the Jon Jones fight, citing three brutal knockout losses and a diminished chin. He notes Jacoby is still competitive with top fighters and can point fight or knock out Reyes. He expects Jacoby to win by knockout, as Reyes' confidence is shattered.

knockout
"I think uh I think jacobe actually comes out here and knocks him out"
JA
Jacob Lines Expert Confident picked Jun 7, 2024 (1 day before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Jacob picks Dustin Jacoby, but he is rooting for Reyes. He thinks Jacoby's jab will wear down Reyes, who has a suspect chin. He notes that Jacoby isn't the most powerful, but his jab can set up a knockout. He warns that Reyes might get too comfortable and get caught. He expects Jacoby to win by decision or late stoppage.

"I think that jab is eventually just going to wear down Dominic ryes I'm going be rooting for him man I hope he comes through"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Jun 4, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Jacoby is a technical striker with good range and output, while Reyes has durability issues and a long layoff. Jacoby should outland Reyes from distance and may knock him out, though Reyes has power of his own. The -225 line is a bit wide, but Jacoby by KO is the pick.

knockout
"I'm going to lean jacobe here minus 225 just makes me a little bit queasy... I'm going to lean Jobe by knockout"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert picked Jun 5, 2024 (3 days before fight)

Paul is tempted to bet Reyes but lacks the courage to pull the trigger. He notes Reyes' three consecutive knockout losses and questions his chin, while Jacoby tends to be in close fights. Paul thinks it's a pass from a betting perspective but might change his mind after weigh-ins.

"I am tempted to bet Dominic Reyes but like for what purpose like he's he's obviously shown that you know Ryan span knocking him out in the first round that's the other guys Yuri and and yon bovic two guys …"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jun 5, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

The Guru says you can't pick Reyes until he proves you wrong, citing his losing streak and the damage he took from Yuri (orbital fracture, shattered nose). He likes Jacoby in a three-rounder because Reyes lacks finishing potential and is coming off TKO losses. He expects Jacoby to get started sooner, landing low kicks, jabs, and body shots, and win a decision (29-28 or 30-27). He also notes Jacoby beat Khalil Rountree in his eyes.

Decision win prediction; mentions 29-28 or 30-27 scorecards
"you can't pick Reyes until he proves you wrong... I'm going to say that jacobe wins a decision"
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC 296: Edwards vs. Covington · Dec 16, 2023
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Alonzo Menifield 1 68 of 117 58% 95 of 145 1 of 2 50% 0 0 2:03
Dustin Jacoby 0 93 of 150 62% 113 of 171 0 of 0 --- 0 0 2:08
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Alonzo Menifield 0 14 of 30 46% 25 of 41 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:27
Dustin Jacoby 0 28 of 44 63% 38 of 54 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:17
2 Alonzo Menifield 0 27 of 48 56% 28 of 50 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:01
Dustin Jacoby 0 31 of 55 56% 31 of 56 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Alonzo Menifield 1 27 of 39 69% 42 of 54 1 of 1 100% 0 0 1:35
Dustin Jacoby 0 34 of 51 66% 44 of 61 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:51
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Alonzo Menifield 68 of 117 58% 58 of 104 2 of 4 8 of 9 51 of 94 14 of 20 3 of 3
Dustin Jacoby 93 of 150 62% 69 of 122 15 of 18 9 of 10 78 of 135 15 of 15 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Alonzo Menifield 14 of 30 46% 14 of 30 0 of 0 0 of 0 12 of 25 2 of 5 0 of 0
Dustin Jacoby 28 of 44 63% 16 of 32 9 of 9 3 of 3 22 of 38 6 of 6 0 of 0
2 Alonzo Menifield 27 of 48 56% 20 of 39 0 of 1 7 of 8 25 of 44 2 of 4 0 of 0
Dustin Jacoby 31 of 55 56% 25 of 46 1 of 4 5 of 5 29 of 53 2 of 2 0 of 0
3 Alonzo Menifield 27 of 39 69% 24 of 35 2 of 3 1 of 1 14 of 25 10 of 11 3 of 3
Dustin Jacoby 34 of 51 66% 28 of 44 5 of 5 1 of 2 27 of 44 7 of 7 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Dustin Jacoby vs. Alonzo Menifield
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Jacoby (-270), Menifield (+220)

Round 1
The preliminary headliner has changed on fight week, and it will now come between two light heavyweight strikers in what could be a real barnburner. Menifield (14-3-1, 7-3-1 UFC) is looking to push his unbeaten streak to five, and Jacoby (19-7-1, 7-4-1 UFC) wants to string some momentum together to make another run up the ladder. Referee Chris Tognoni dons his proverbial hard hat as these two men will be swinging with bad intentions for as long as it lasts. Before they swing for the fences, the 205ers bump their gloves together while nodding in excitement. Both men are cautious to engage for the first 25 seconds, until Menifield wings two hooks that both come up short. Menifield reaches out with a jab, and Jacoby answers him with one of his own. Menifield again misses with an overhand right, and Jacoby prods out a few more jabs to keep the power swinging Menifield at bay. Jacoby kicks the inside thigh and loops a left hand around the guard, and he ducks away from a huge strike from Menifield. Jacoby stays busy with jabs and leg kicks, and he keeps his guard high to block the worst of the blows. Menifield scores a single left hook, and Jacoby puts his foot on the gas and gives chase. Menifield just misses a right hand that bumps into the chest, and he swings for the bleachers with wide, inaccurate punches. Jacoby sees the majority of those home run strikes coming and is able to block or evade them, and he crowds Menifield until Menifield sprints at him in search of a takedown. Jacoby tosses him to the side and allows Menifield to stand back up, and he just blocks a left hook. Jacoby rings Menifield’s bell with a right hand, and he gets stung with a counter. Jacoby crowds his man, and Menifield welcomes the clinch and tries to turn him around or throw him to the floor. Jacoby stays on his feet and knees the body, as the two jockey for position from up close. Jacoby continues to press his weight on his opponent, and Menifield eventually turns him around and lands a single right hook. Jacoby does not like this, lines up a knee down the middle, and the slow round ends.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Jacoby
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Jacoby
Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 Jacoby

Round 2
The 205ers meet in the middle with a glove touch, and Jacoby gets right back into his jabbing groove. Menifield gets tired of playing the jab and miss game, and he bites down on his mouthpiece and drives out a straight left that blasts Jacoby in the face. Jacoby stumbles from one side of the cage to the other, but he manages to gather his thoughts when ricocheting off the fence before Menifield can pounce. Jacoby recovers, but Menifield drives home two fierce leg kicks that give him pause. Jacoby lands a few jabs, and Menifield tries his own and lands a leg kick on the inside. Jacoby takes the left hand flush and is no worse for wear, and he parries a second. Menifield cracks the former Glory kickboxer with a right hand, stunning him but not putting him down. Jacoby hands on tight and hurts Menifield with a counter. Menifield shakes it off and crashes forward, landing blazing hooks on the side of the head and making Jacoby briefly rethink his life decision leading to that point. Jacoby tries to fire back, but Menifield is on him throwing merciless punches. Jacoby bounces off the cage and looks to settle down with his rangy jab, but Menifield has found his range and connects with effective counters. Jacoby snaps the head back with a jab, and Menifield backpedals as his right eye begins to swell. Jacoby kicks low, and Menifield returns fire with a far heavier blow that force a stance switch. Jacoby whiffs on a head kick but rifles a jab down the middle, and Menifield dodges a follow-up punch and grazes the side of the head with a left hook. The two clash shins together, and Jacoby gets the worse of it. Jacoby attacks, and Menifield meets him with his own punches until the round ends.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Menifield
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Menifield
Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 Jacoby

Round 3
There is a final glove touch to begin the last round. Jacoby flashes out a leg kick, and Menifield is right there to counter him. Jacoby lines up several jabs, and Menifield dodges to the side to avoid most of them but not all. Menifield comes back with an overhand right, and he hops away to avoid a leg kick. Menifield loads up on a big left hook, and Jacoby tanks it and prods out a front kick. Jacoby snipes his man with a one-two, and when Menifield comes up short, Jacoby lands another. Menifield draws his foe into a short firefight, and he bangs a left hook off the temple of “The Hanyak.” Jacoby skillfully lands jab after jab, busting Menifield’s nose up and connecting in great numbers. Menifield gets sick of eating those punches, and he knocks Jacoby clean off his feet with a thunderous left hook. Jacoby falls to his seat, and Menifield tries to seal the deal with several clubbing undercuts beneath Jacoby’s armpit. Jacoby muscles his way back to his feet, and Menifield beats on him with a long series of punches and uppercuts. Jacoby tries to fire back, and Menifield drops down and hits a takedown to put the former kickboxer on his seat. Menifield connects with several jackhammering punches until Jacoby forces Menifield to fall off him and explode back up. The two stay tight in the clinch, and Jacoby considers a takedown that is thwarted. Menifield turns the tables, dropping down for a single, and he bails on it when Tognoni tells him to stay busy. Jacoby looks for inside or outside trips, and Menifield keeps his balance with his back to the wire. Menifield turns him around and knees him in the belly, and he gains enough space to wing a right hand that hurts Jacoby. Menifield gives chase and clubs Jacoby in the face with a pair of hooks, and the bloody battle comes to a conclusion when time expires.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Menifield (29-28 Menifield)
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Menifield (29-28 Menifield)
Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 Menifield (29-28 Jacoby)

The Official Result
Alonzo Menifield def. Dustin Jacoby via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Lean picked Dec 10, 2023 (6 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Angelo leans Dustin Jacoby due to his superior kickboxing, noting he was once ranked #2 in the world. He acknowledges Menifield's power and Jacoby's recent vulnerability to being dropped, but believes the technical striking advantage will prevail. He is undecided on betting.

Undecided on betting; concerned about Menifield's power
"I'm gonna lean jacobe here... Dustin's going to be the pick I'm still deciding if I trust him enough to bet"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Dec 13, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Big Brady picks Dustin Jacoby to win by decision, citing Jacoby's advantages in age, height, striking volume, and cardio. He notes Menifield's inconsistency and poor performances, and believes Menifield's only path is a knockout, which is unlikely given Jacoby's chin (only 1 KO loss in 27 fights). Brady expects Jacoby to use his kicks and volume to outpoint Menifield over three rounds, similar to his fight against Khalil Rountree.

"I'm kind of leaning more towards a decision here for Dustin jacobe though I think he plays this fight smart sticks to the outside use his kicks us his volume and just picks apart Alonzo manafield across 15 minutes"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Dec 14, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Cody picks Jacoby, agreeing that he is the better striker with superior cardio. He notes that Menifield's wins are over lower-level competition and that Jacoby has fought at a higher level. Cody believes Jacoby will outwork Menifield and potentially get a late TKO or decision. He acknowledges the risk of Menifield's power but thinks Jacoby's volume and experience will prevail.

"Justin job's fighting at a higher level he appears to have the better skill set he has the better cardio it's Striker versus Striker and he's a better Striker yeah he's the pick"
LU
Lucrative James Expert picked Dec 12, 2023 (4 days before fight)

Lucrative James does not have a strong read on this fight. He feels Dustin Jacoby should win by decision, but he has a nagging feeling that Alonzo Menifield could catch him early with power. He considers it a pass fight, though he mentions that Menifield inside the distance at big odds might be worth a small play.

Maybe Alonzo KO at +700 or similar.
"I don't feel like I mean I don't feel like Dustin will really finish Manfield though... that's a pass fight for me."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Dec 12, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

The host picks Jacoby but thinks the minus 270 line is too wide against a dangerous fighter like Menifield. He praises Jacoby's technical striking, footwork, and precision, and believes he can keep Menifield at bay with kicks and combinations. He notes that Menifield has improved his cardio and clinch work but still expects Jacoby to outpoint him. He suggests a nibble on Jacoby by decision prop.

Jacoby by decision
"I'm still going to go with jacobe here though the minus 270 too wide I'm I'm going to I'm going to pass on that line um I might take a nibble on jacobe by decision"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Dec 14, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Paul picks Jacoby, stating that the price looks better than other big favorites on the card. He notes that Jacoby is a better striker with Glory kickboxing experience and has remarkable cardio. He believes Menifield will start hot but fade, and Jacoby will dissect him with volume and potentially get a late TKO or decision. Paul acknowledges Menifield's power but thinks Jacoby's skill set is superior.

"I'm on the camp with Dustin jacobe here and I think the price looked a lot better earlier in the week"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Dec 12, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

The Guru picks Dustin Jacoby over Alonzo Menifield, calling Jacoby one of the most underrated light heavyweights. He highlights Jacoby's impressive wins (e.g., Khalil Rountree, Anthony Smith) and takedown defense. He argues that if Menifield couldn't finish Jimmy Crute on the feet, he won't finish Jacoby. He predicts Jacoby will pick Menifield apart and win by decision or TKO.

Jacoby by decision (30-27) or TKO in round 2
"I'm going with Dustin Jacob I think he's one of the most underrated like heavyweights that's on the roster right now... I'm definitely going to go if Jacob be picking apart Alonzo manyfield and maybe getting a TKO at some …"
TKO (punches) R1 1:22 · UFC on ESPN: Sandhagen vs. Font · Aug 05, 2023
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Dustin Jacoby 1 10 of 33 30% 10 of 33 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:04
Kennedy Nzechukwu 0 4 of 18 22% 4 of 18 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Dustin Jacoby 1 10 of 33 30% 10 of 33 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:04
Kennedy Nzechukwu 0 4 of 18 22% 4 of 18 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Dustin Jacoby 10 of 33 30% 5 of 28 0 of 0 5 of 5 10 of 26 0 of 0 0 of 7
Kennedy Nzechukwu 4 of 18 22% 3 of 14 0 of 3 1 of 1 4 of 18 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Dustin Jacoby 10 of 33 30% 5 of 28 0 of 0 5 of 5 10 of 26 0 of 0 0 of 7
Kennedy Nzechukwu 4 of 18 22% 3 of 14 0 of 3 1 of 1 4 of 18 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Hesitant picked Jul 30, 2023 (6 days before fight)
Kennedy Nzechukwu

Angelo picks Kennedy Nzechukwu despite acknowledging Dustin Jacoby is the better striker. He notes that Kennedy is bigger, more dangerous, and has fought higher competition. He warns that Kennedy is never out of a fight and can come from behind, but also mentions that Jacoby was dropped in his last fight, which is concerning. Angelo admits he would love Jacoby as an underdog if not for that, but ultimately goes with Kennedy's danger factor.

"the pick's gonna be Kennedy but I'm going to be rooting for Dustin"
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Aug 1, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Kennedy Nzechukwu

Big Brady is uncertain but leans toward Nzechukwu. He argues that if Nzechukwu strikes with Jacoby he'll lose, but his path to victory is wrestling. He notes Nzechukwu's takedown defense is good and his grappling has improved, as seen in recent fights. He thinks Nzechukwu can take Jacoby down and control him, especially since Jacoby has been taken down many times before. He predicts a decision win but admits Nzechukwu fights are hard to predict.

Nzechukwu by decision
"I'll pick him to win by decision but the more I think about this one the more I don't feel amazing about it"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Aug 2, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Kennedy Nzechukwu

Cody leans towards Nzechukwu on the moneyline, but his main interest is a small poke on Kennedy by submission at +950. He believes Kennedy will rely on grappling and can submit Jacoby, who has faced few grapplers. He notes Jacoby's kickboxing base and cardio, but thinks Kennedy's improvements in grappling and size could be decisive.

Kennedy by submission +950 (small poke)
"I see like a plus 950 on Kennedy by sub... I'm probably gonna take a little small poke on that"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Lean picked Aug 2, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Kennedy Nzechukwu

Daniel Levi leans toward Kennedy Nzechukwu but is not confident. He acknowledges Jacoby's striking credentials and past success, but worries about Jacoby's age (35-36) and potential decline. Levi notes Nzechukwu's physical advantages (7-inch reach, southpaw) and his knack for comebacks, but also his slow starts and durability concerns. He sees this as a dog-or-pass situation and prefers Nzechukwu at the current price, though he would have picked Jacoby two years ago.

Mentions that he would take a comeback at dog odds but not at -150. No specific prop bet.
"I'm gonna lean Kennedy but it's a tough fight."
LU
Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Aug 4, 2023 (1 day before fight)
Kennedy Nzechukwu

James changed his mind after tape. He thinks Nzechukwu is younger, more athletic, and on an upward trajectory while Jacoby is declining. Nzechukwu's height and reach advantage will disrupt Jacoby's outside kickboxing game. He expects Nzechukwu to force pressure, clinch, and possibly finish inside the distance.

inside the distance
"I think Kennedy will win this fight... probably even inside the distance."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Aug 4, 2023 (1 day before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Jacoby loves combination striking, leg kicks, and body work. He had a 6-1-1 run until a split decision loss to Khalil Rountree and a bad KO loss. If he can stay safe and not get dropped, he should outpoint Nzechukwu, who is explosive but wears down. Jacoby's durability is a concern, but I'm sticking with Jacoby as a dog shot. He wins by decision.

"I'm going to stick with Jacoby here's the dog shot I think he's worth the play here"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Aug 2, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Paul takes Jacoby at plus money, citing his volume, leg kicks, and takedown defense. He notes Kennedy's suspect cardio and tendency to get rocked, and believes Jacoby can outland him in a kickboxing match. However, he acknowledges Jacoby's fights are often close decisions and only takes him at plus money.

"I'll take a dog poke here at Dustin Jacoby at the slight plus money"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Aug 1, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Kennedy Nzechukwu

The host picks Kennedy Nzechukwu, citing his youth (31), durability, and recent momentum. He believes Nzechukwu will out-volume Jacoby and has a granite chin. He notes Jacoby is 35 and coming off a loss. He thinks Nzechukwu wins by decision but could finish. He warns that if the line goes above -165, value shifts to Jacoby.

line opened -126, now -156; suggests decision win for Nzechukwu; value on Jacoby if line exceeds -165
"I gotta lean Kennedy and shaku in the spot"
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC on ESPN: Holloway vs. Allen · Apr 15, 2023
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Azamat Murzakanov 0 64 of 131 48% 96 of 167 1 of 6 16% 0 0 3:06
Dustin Jacoby 1 67 of 127 52% 70 of 130 1 of 5 20% 0 0 0:16
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Azamat Murzakanov 0 19 of 39 48% 19 of 39 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Dustin Jacoby 0 25 of 50 50% 25 of 50 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:12
2 Azamat Murzakanov 0 21 of 40 52% 37 of 56 0 of 1 0% 0 0 1:17
Dustin Jacoby 1 26 of 45 57% 29 of 48 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:04
3 Azamat Murzakanov 0 24 of 52 46% 40 of 72 1 of 5 20% 0 0 1:49
Dustin Jacoby 0 16 of 32 50% 16 of 32 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Azamat Murzakanov 64 of 131 48% 36 of 95 8 of 12 20 of 24 60 of 126 4 of 5 0 of 0
Dustin Jacoby 67 of 127 52% 51 of 110 12 of 13 4 of 4 64 of 122 3 of 5 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Azamat Murzakanov 19 of 39 48% 8 of 24 2 of 4 9 of 11 19 of 39 0 of 0 0 of 0
Dustin Jacoby 25 of 50 50% 20 of 44 4 of 5 1 of 1 25 of 48 0 of 2 0 of 0
2 Azamat Murzakanov 21 of 40 52% 12 of 27 2 of 4 7 of 9 20 of 39 1 of 1 0 of 0
Dustin Jacoby 26 of 45 57% 20 of 39 5 of 5 1 of 1 24 of 43 2 of 2 0 of 0
3 Azamat Murzakanov 24 of 52 46% 16 of 44 4 of 4 4 of 4 21 of 48 3 of 4 0 of 0
Dustin Jacoby 16 of 32 50% 11 of 27 3 of 3 2 of 2 15 of 31 1 of 1 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Apr 9, 2023 (6 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Angelo picks Dustin Jacoby as the better technical striker, noting he was ranked 2nd in the world in kickboxing. However, he is not betting because Jacoby lacks power and Murzakanov hits very hard and has comeback KO power. He expects Jacoby to need to point-fight perfectly for 15 minutes to win, which is risky.

"Dustin's gonna be the pick but I'm not gonna bet him because he's gonna have to point fight his way to a win here"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Apr 11, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Big Brady picks Dustin Jacoby to win by decision. He cites Jacoby's size, reach, and volume advantages, as well as his good takedown defense and chin. He doubts Murzakanov's cardio and ability to take Jacoby down, and believes Jacoby will outpoint him over three rounds. He notes Murzakanov's power but thinks Jacoby can absorb it.

"give me a Dustin Jacoby to win this fight give me Dustin Jacoby to win this fight by decision"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Apr 12, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Cody notes Murzakanov is a first-round finisher but low volume, while Jacoby throws high volume (120+ strikes). He thinks Jacoby's reach and cardio will be key, and that Murzakanov's power shots may not be enough to overcome Jacoby's output. He prefers to bet Jacoby live after the first round.

Live bet after first round
"I would take Justin Jacoby but these are big boys that are going to be largely in a striking Affair"
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Apr 13, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Connor also picks Jacoby, agreeing that Murzakanov's power-punching style is ill-suited for Jacoby's rangey, technical approach. He notes that Jacoby is durable and has only been knocked out by elite punchers like King Mo and Alex Pereira. Connor believes Murzakanov's lack of combination punching and setup will leave him vulnerable to Jacoby's consistent output and counter-striking.

"I came to the same conclusion. I'm just not that impressed with Azamat Murzakanov."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Apr 11, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Jacoby's range, footwork, and kicks will keep Murzakanov at distance. Murzakanov's cardio and wrestling are questionable, and he tends to fade. Jacoby's disciplined striking and cardio advantage should lead to a clear decision victory. Murzakanov is difficult to finish, so expect a full 15 minutes.

Fight goes to decision
"I think we see Dustin Jacoby control his fight pretty easily from his kicks and utilizing his range and his height Advantage."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Apr 12, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Paul sides with Jacoby's volume and reach advantage (5 inches). He notes Murzakanov may be undersized at 205 and that Jacoby's output should overwhelm him. He agrees with Cody that the live market may offer better value.

"I'll side with the volume again I'm going to decide with the the numbers and Jacoby's got a five inch reach advantage"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Apr 11, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

The MMA Guru picks Dustin Jacoby to win by unanimous decision, citing Jacoby's length, footwork, and striking output. He warns Jacoby must avoid a war and use leg kicks from the outside to outpoint Murzakanov, who has fight-ending power but slow starts. He notes the -190 line is a bit high and would prefer -170, but still sides with Jacoby.

Jacoby wins by decision
"Dustin Jacoby will be the pick"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Apr 13, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Zane picks Jacoby, citing his volume, durability, and technical kickboxing as too much for Murzakanov. He notes that Murzakanov is a one-dimensional power puncher who relies on timing and rhythm changes, but Jacoby's jab, kicks, and counter-punching will keep him at range. Zane also points out that Murzakanov's wins have come against lower-level competition, while Jacoby has proven himself against tougher opponents like Khalil Rountree.

"I think Jacoby's volume here carries the day."
Julius Walker - Fight History
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Julius Walker vs. Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Yakhyaev (-550); Walker (+425)

Round 1
The heaviest bout at UFC Baku features unbeaten 205-pound prospect Yakhyaev against fellow up-and-comer Walker. The referee is Jim Perdios. They touch gloves and Yakhyaev absolutely levels Walker with his very first punch, a tight right hook to the jaw. He pounces, drops a couple hammerfists and Perdios is there for the save. One of the 10 fastest finishes in UFC history, an animated gif of a fight, is over.

The Official Result
Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev def. Julius Walker R1 0:08 via KO (Punches)
AJ
AJ DeVito Expert Confident picked Jun 23, 2026 (4 days before fight)
Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev

AJ sees this as a squash match for Yakhyaev, who is a better striker and grappler. He thinks Yakhyaev can knock out or submit Walker, who is stiff and awkward. AJ expects a finish within 15 minutes and notes the under 1.5 rounds line.

Under 1.5 rounds -210
"Yaky inside the distance is the pick. I think Yaky is a mismatch here."
AJ
AJ DeVito Expert Confident picked Jun 22, 2026 (5 days before fight)
Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev

AJ expects Yakhyaev to finish Walker, likely in the first round, due to his knockout power and submission threat. Walker has defensive flaws and was recently knocked out. Yakhyaev's aggression and well-rounded game should overwhelm Walker.

Under 2 rounds likely. Yakhyaev -500 favorite (5-to-1).
"I'm going with Abdul Rakman Yakv to win. I think he's going to knock Julius Walker out."
AJ
AJ DeVito Expert Confident picked Jun 25, 2026 (2 days before fight)
Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev

AJ is very confident Yakhyaev wins, calling it a setup fight. He believes Yakhyaev has superior boxing, power, and grappling, and will likely win by submission. He sees Walker as a can't-win fight and expects Yakhyaev to hurt him on the feet before securing a submission.

Yakhyaev by KO +165; Yakhyaev by submission +150; under 1.5 rounds +220; Yakhyaev wins round 1 -125; Yakhyaev sub round 1 +215; Yakhyaev sub round 2 +1100.
"Yakov is the guy. I think he goes out and cooks them."
AJ
AJ DeVito Expert Confident picked Jun 24, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev

AJ DeVito is confident that Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev will defeat Julius Walker, calling it a setup fight. He notes Yakhyaev's well-rounded skills, nasty grappling, and knockout power, and expects a finish, leaning towards submission. He mentions Yakhyaev's quick win over Raphael Circada and Walker's struggles.

Yakhyaev by finish at -300 (mentioned in parlay); Yakhyaev by submission (lean).
"I think Yakov should win by finish. I think he's probably live to hurt Walker, but I do feel like with the Chetchin, I lean win by submission still regardless of potential knockout power."
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jun 21, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev

Angelo picks Yakhyaev easily, noting that Julius Walker is too green with only 3 years of professional experience. He believes Yakhyaev is the better grappler and will likely win by finish. He expects the odds to move significantly.

odds will not be like this for much longer
"Yakhyaev is the pick. He wins this fight. He probably wins by finish. These odds will not be like this for much longer."
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jun 24, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev

Angelo thinks Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev dominates the fight and earns his price tag, expecting a finish in under 1.5 rounds. He considers Julius Walker the worst fighter on the card, with only 3 years of professional experience.

win by finish +110, round 1 finish
"I think Abdul-Rakhman Yakubov dominates this fight. I think he earns his price tag, and I think he gets a finish in under one and a half rounds."
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jun 23, 2026 (4 days before fight)
Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev

Angelo picks Yakhyaev, stating he is better everywhere and that Walker is too early in his career. He notes that Walker has holes in his game and was just knocked out. He believes Yakhyaev will dominate and is worth the price despite being a heavy favorite.

"Yakayv is literally better everywhere. Yakayv is the pick."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Jun 21, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev

Big Brady picks Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev to win by first-round knockout. He describes Yakhyaev as a beast with eight first-round wins, either knocking opponents out or submitting them early. Walker is a grappler with poor striking who has been hurt by lesser fighters. Brady sees a bad matchup for Walker, expecting Yakhyaev to finish him quickly.

win by first round knockout
"I'm going Yakv here. I'm going Yakv to win by first round knockout."
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Jun 24, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev

Cody picks Yakhyaev, calling him a future title contender. He notes Yakhyaev's grappling and physicality, and believes he will dominate Walker. He parlayed Yakhyaev with Donchenko early in the week.

"I look at Yaki as a guy who maybe a couple years down the line could be fighting for gold."
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Lock picked Jun 23, 2026 (4 days before fight)
Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev

Daniel Levi considers this a lock, stating he bet Yakhyaev at -400 and would cap him at -1500. He dismisses Julius Walker's competition, particularly his life-and-death fight with Raphael Cera, and believes Yakhyaev can win by any method: head kick, punches, takedowns, submission, or grind. He expects a quick finish, possibly under a minute.

bet at -400, win under a minute
"I cap him minus 1500. I still think there's value on Yakay and I think he's going to come out here. I think he's going to steamroll Julius Walker and I think he might do it under a minute."
JA
Jacob Lines Expert Confident picked Jun 23, 2026 (4 days before fight)
Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev

Jacob picks Yakhyaev to win by KO or submission, predicting a dominant performance. He thinks Walker has no path to victory and that Yakhyaev will finish him early, possibly earning a performance bonus. He got Yakhyaev at a good price before the line moved.

Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev wins by KO or submission
"I think Abdul Yaky is going to come out here with some wild [ __ ] He's probably going to club and sub him in a minute and 29 seconds and everyone's going to go, 'Yeah, that happened.'"
LU
Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Jun 21, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev

Lucrative James is very confident in Yakhyaev, calling him a legit prospect with explosive wrestling, submissions, and power. He notes that Yakhyaev finishes fights early and has shown cardio in a five-round decision. He believes Julius Walker is outskilled everywhere and predicts a first-round knockout, as Yakhyaev is due for a KO after two submission wins.

"Yaki via KO or via submission. Pick your poison. I'm going to say KO. ... I'm going to take Yakyv to win via knockout in round one in this fight."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lock picked Jun 23, 2026 (4 days before fight)
Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev

Yakhyaev is far superior in almost every aspect, with a nasty jiu-jitsu game and decent striking. Walker is athletic but lacks technical skills and has mediocre cardio. Yakhyaev will dominate positions and get a quick first-round finish, likely by knockout.

Yakhyaev wins in round 1, by knockout
"I think Yaky runs through Walker in this spot. I'd be very very surprised if Walker is able to pull off this upset."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lock picked Jun 24, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev

The host is stunned that Yakubov is not at minus 1000, believing he is far superior to Walker in every aspect. He thinks Yakubov may lean on his striking to find the chin of Walker and predicts a first-round knockout win.

Yakubov wins by knockout, round 1
"I am stunned that Yakubov is not all the way up at minus 1,000 already, but I believe that's the trajectory that he's on, as he is far superior to Walker in every single aspect of mixed martial arts."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Jun 24, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev

Paul picks Yakhyaev confidently, calling him a top prospect. He notes Yakhyaev's grappling and physical strength, and believes he will overwhelm Walker. He prefers the over 1.5 rounds at plus money, expecting Walker's durability to carry him past the first round but Yakhyaev to win.

Over 1.5 rounds at +183
"I got Yakaya, but yeah, I'm not really necessarily sure that I love this minus 600. I did take no surprise here. Uh the over one and a half. It's like plus 185 or something."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jun 26, 2026 (1 day before fight)
Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev

The Guru picks Yakhyaev via knockout, citing his dynamic striking, evasiveness, and well-rounded grappling. He believes Walker is too linear and stiff, and will get caught coming in. He expects Yakhyaev to land a single strike or finish on the ground.

"I feel like he's going to get it done here and probably win this fight via knockout."
LOSS vs Dustin Jacoby
KO R2 1:42 · UFC Fight Night: Bautista vs. Oliveira · Feb 07, 2026
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Dustin Jacoby 1 42 of 71 59% 47 of 79 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:59
Julius Walker 0 7 of 21 33% 12 of 26 3 of 7 42% 0 0 2:47
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Dustin Jacoby 0 13 of 20 65% 16 of 26 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:27
Julius Walker 0 5 of 15 33% 10 of 20 3 of 6 50% 0 0 2:29
2 Dustin Jacoby 1 29 of 51 56% 31 of 53 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:32
Julius Walker 0 2 of 6 33% 2 of 6 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:18
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Dustin Jacoby 42 of 71 59% 35 of 64 3 of 3 4 of 4 22 of 38 9 of 10 11 of 23
Julius Walker 7 of 21 33% 3 of 17 1 of 1 3 of 3 4 of 12 2 of 7 1 of 2
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Dustin Jacoby 13 of 20 65% 7 of 14 3 of 3 3 of 3 13 of 20 0 of 0 0 of 0
Julius Walker 5 of 15 33% 3 of 13 1 of 1 1 of 1 2 of 6 2 of 7 1 of 2
2 Dustin Jacoby 29 of 51 56% 28 of 50 0 of 0 1 of 1 9 of 18 9 of 10 11 of 23
Julius Walker 2 of 6 33% 0 of 4 0 of 0 2 of 2 2 of 6 0 of 0 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Dustin Jacoby ( 204.5) vs. Julius Walker
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Jacoby (-205); Walker (+175)

Round 1
A pair of 205ers who prefer the knockout will slug it out across this three-round main card opener. Jacoby (21-9-1, 9-6-1 UFC) will come in 11 years older and far more experience, while “Juice Box” Walker (7-1, 1-1 UFC) comes in with youthful exuberance full of something and vinegar. They tap their gloves together as referee Dan Miragliotta in his 500th UFC bout handles the particulars.
Walker takes the center of the cage, with Jacoby hand-fighting to find an opening. There is no opening found in the first 30 seconds, until Jacoby tosses out a jab. He aims another, as Walker responds with a low kick and a lancing straight right hand. The former kickboxer boots Walker in the lead leg, and he misses with a subsequent overhand right. Jacoby pounds the front leg with another kick. Walker reaches out with a right hand, and he gets knocked back to the fence with Jacoby’s swinging fists. Walker shoots for a takedown, with Jacoby defending by wrapping up an anaconda choke that is not particularly tight. Walker fights out of it and stands up without much concern, taking a jab on the way out. Jacoby swipes out a left hook, and Walker answers back with a one-two. Jacoby hits the front leg with another kick, and he is faced with a takedown shot.
Walker lifts Jacoby off the ground, carrying him over to his corner and dumping him down unceremoniously. With one hook in, Walker holds on from behind, but Jacoby is able to post off his hands and stands up. Walker clings to the ex-kickboxer, ignoring elbows to his face so he can set up a strong knee to the face. Walker lands a few more, much to Jacoby’s disappointing, lifting his leg up high to crash it square into the chin of “The Hanyak” a few more times. Walker hits a suplex to throw Jacoby to the floor, and Jacoby springs up like hit a trampoline. Walker knees Jacoby in the back of the thigh and drags him around the cage but is not able to ground him again on this effort. Walker transitions to a double, scooping Jacoby up like a child’s plaything and throwing him down much harder to the floor. This time, he hammers Jacoby with elbows, landing at least one well after the bell sounded.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Walker
Dayne Fox scores the round: 10-9 Walker
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Walker

Round 2
The light heavyweights touch gloves to lead off the round, with Jacoby peppering offense immediately after in the form of jabs and low kicks. Walker tries to stride in with a right hand, and Jacoby’s counter right sends Walker staggering back. Walker shakes out the cobwebs and beats on the front leg with another kick, only to take two huge punches on the side of the head. Walker hits his seat, and after a few more swings, Jacoby walks off, thinking his work here is done. Miragliotta gets close but does not wave it off, so Walker snatches up his ankle and forces Jacoby to hop away and re-engage. With Walker still down, Jacoby rails him with a thunderous uppercut that almost knocks him all the way out. Jacoby is not about to let him off the hook, raining down punches while Walker tries as hard as he can to sit up and stand. Walker goes all-out in pursuit of a single, pushing Jacoby back to the wall. Walker hangs on from behind, and Jacoby turns around and starts battering Walker on the side of the head with elbows. The damage begins to mount, and so does Jacoby, whose efforts force Walker to his back so he can climb into the dominant position.
Walker twists out of the precarious spot and turns to place his back to the wall while still seated, and Jacoby lays into his with strikes on both sides of the head. Walker miraculously stands up, and Jacoby’s onslaught knocks him right back down. Miragliotta determines that enough is enough, with blood streaming down Walker’s cheek, and waves the fight off.
For Jacoby, this was likely for the best, as he plops down on his stool when returning to his corner from near-total exhaustion. On cloud nine, the victor expresses his support for his country and current administration, asking for a place on the White House event in June and making a very unique callout. He calls for Donald Trump...to play a round of golf with him.

The Official Result
Dustin Jacoby def. Julius Walker R2 1:42 via TKO (Punches)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Feb 1, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Angelo picks Dustin Jacoby confidently, calling him too good of a striker and grappler with too much experience. He notes Jacoby's high-level kickboxing, technical striking, and solid takedown defense. He dismisses Julius Walker as sloppy and reliant on raw athleticism, and believes Jacoby will win easily. He hopes the odds are reasonable and will include Jacoby in parlays.

"Dustin Jacobe wins this fight. He's too good of a striker, too good of a grappler, has too much experience."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Feb 1, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Big Brady picks Dustin Jacoby, citing his superior striking and elite takedown defense. He notes that Julius Walker was pieced up by Raphael Sakara on the feet, which bodes poorly against a much better striker in Jacoby. He expects Jacoby to knock out Walker, likely in the first round.

by first round knockout
"I think Jacobe knocks him out. I'm going to go into Dustin Jacobe here. I think it's a first round knockout."
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Hesitant picked Feb 4, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Cody hesitantly picks Dustin Jacoby, acknowledging the experience gap but noting Jacoby's travel and short notice. He admits his heart wants Walker but struggles to overlook Jacoby's experience. Cody does not bet on Jacoby and expects a competitive fight.

"I haven't bet Dustin Jacobe. Everything in my being tells me to bet Dustin Jacobe."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Feb 5, 2026 (2 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Connor agrees with Zane, noting that Jacobi is still dangerous with single shots and that Walker's style of walking in will give Jacobi opportunities. He thinks Jacobi will respond with offense if put in a scary situation, but the fight could be a grind. He calls it a sucky fight between two failed experiments.

Same odds discussion.
"I'm going to pick Jacobi here."
LU
Lucrative James Expert Hesitant picked Feb 1, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Lucrative James picks Dustin Jacoby to win, citing his massive experience and striking advantage, as well as good takedown defense. However, he is hesitant due to Jacoby's age and potential chin decline. James notes that if Jacoby is an underdog, he would bet him, but he acknowledges Walker's grappling could be a threat.

"I'm gonna go with Dustin Jacobe for the win though, guys. And the reason is because he has too much of a experience advantage and a massive massive striking advantage and very good takedown defense."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Feb 3, 2026 (4 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

The host picks Jacoby by knockout, but notes reduced confidence due to Jacoby cornering a teammate in Australia a week before the fight. He believes Jacoby's superior striking and defensive grappling will allow him to pick Walker apart and eventually land a big shot. He expects Walker to struggle to get takedowns and be forced to strike, where Jacoby has the advantage.

knockout win
"So, give me Jacobe and Jacobe by knockout."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Feb 4, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Julius Walker

Paul picks Julius Walker as a dog, citing Jacoby's short notice, travel from Australia, and age (37). He notes Walker's youth, athleticism, and improvement, especially his wrestling. Paul believes Walker can take Jacoby down and control the fight, though he admits bias due to connections.

"I am actually going to end up taking a dog play on Julius Walker. Not super confident."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Feb 7, 2026 (fight day)
Dustin Jacoby

The host picks Dustin Jacoby over Julius Walker. He thinks Jacoby is underrated, citing his win over Vitor Petrino and competitive fight with Azamat Murzakanov. He notes Walker looked sloppy against Rafael Cacara. He predicts a decision win for Jacoby, 29-28 or 30-27.

decision 29-28 or 30-27
"I'm going to go with Jacoby. I think he's on a level another level of experience to Julius Walker."
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Feb 5, 2026 (2 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Zane picks Jacoby because he is a good technical kickboxer who can finish with single shots. He notes that Walker is tough but walks in with his chin up and feet flat, making him vulnerable. However, he warns that Jacoby's hesitancy could make the fight ugly, similar to his fight against Alonzo Menifield.

Jacoby opened at -135, currently -185; Walker opened at +115, currently +160.
"I'm going to pick Dustin Jacobi."
DEC R3 5:00 · UFC on ESPN: Dolidze vs. Hernandez · Aug 09, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Julius Walker 1 44 of 62 70% 96 of 120 6 of 10 60% 0 0 11:46
Raffael Cerqueira 0 19 of 42 45% 30 of 54 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:27
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Julius Walker 0 13 of 22 59% 17 of 27 3 of 4 75% 0 0 3:31
Raffael Cerqueira 0 11 of 25 44% 12 of 26 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:18
2 Julius Walker 0 13 of 18 72% 48 of 57 1 of 1 100% 0 0 4:41
Raffael Cerqueira 0 1 of 4 25% 6 of 10 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Julius Walker 1 18 of 22 81% 31 of 36 2 of 5 40% 0 0 3:34
Raffael Cerqueira 0 7 of 13 53% 12 of 18 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:09
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Julius Walker 44 of 62 70% 26 of 43 9 of 10 9 of 9 18 of 26 4 of 9 22 of 27
Raffael Cerqueira 19 of 42 45% 15 of 37 0 of 1 4 of 4 19 of 42 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Julius Walker 13 of 22 59% 5 of 14 3 of 3 5 of 5 8 of 13 2 of 5 3 of 4
Raffael Cerqueira 11 of 25 44% 7 of 21 0 of 0 4 of 4 11 of 25 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Julius Walker 13 of 18 72% 6 of 11 5 of 5 2 of 2 4 of 5 1 of 2 8 of 11
Raffael Cerqueira 1 of 4 25% 1 of 4 0 of 0 0 of 0 1 of 4 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Julius Walker 18 of 22 81% 15 of 18 1 of 2 2 of 2 6 of 8 1 of 2 11 of 12
Raffael Cerqueira 7 of 13 53% 7 of 12 0 of 1 0 of 0 7 of 13 0 of 0 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Raffael Cerqueira vs. Julius Walker
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Walker (-600); Cerqueira (+450)

Round 1
It’s time for a light heavyweight slugfest, with the promotion matching two fighters holding one combined decision victory. Referee Mike Beltran will need to be on his A-game when Walker (6-1, 0-1 UFC) and Cerqueira (11-2, 0-2 UFC) throw down, and the judges may be able to take this one off. Before they try to lop one another’s head from their shoulders, the fighters opt to clap hands together.
Walker walks down the Brazilian throwing hands, and Cerqueira knocks him back with a clean right hand. Cerqueira puts a one-two down the pipe, and the jab for Cerqueira is setting up power shots. Cerqueira swings hard with two hooks, prompting Walker to clinch up. They jockey for position up against the wall, with Walker offering a few knees to the gut when otherwise imposing his weight on his foe. Cerqueira breaks free and just misses a big left hand. Walker stalks his man down and has his guard split by a left, and Cerqueira wings a right hand over the top. The Brazilian spins with a kick that slams into Walker’s knee, and Walker looks at him and hurls a head kick that makes him fall over. Walker jumps back up to initiate a clinch, and he body locks and trips Cerqueira to the mat. Walker gets his hooks in, and Cerqueira tugs his toes on the fencing to try to improve his position. Beltran admonishes him.
Walker transitions to lean over with an arm-triangle choke, and Cerqueira turns the same time to get to his knees and then up to his feet. Walker grips hold of a leg and mat returns Cerqueira, who lands on the mat and fastens his grip on Walker’s left arm for a kimura sweep effort. The American yanks his limb out, and Cerqueira crawls towards the fence and gives his back up. Walker happily takes it, imposing his weight on top while unloading with power right hands. Walker considers a rear-naked choke before Cerqueira turns to his back, and Walker transitions into a two-on-one wrist lock. Cerqueira sits up and backs his way to the fencing while Walker clings to his left arm, and Walker lets it go so he can sit up high and smack Cerqueira in the face with short right hands. As Cerqueira tries to stand, Walker counters with an anaconda choke that he uses to keep Cerqueira stuck. Cerqueira responds with a double-leg entry, and Walker considers a guillotine choke but settles for wrenching Cerqueira to the floor. Seconds after they hit the ground, the horn sounds.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Walker
Dayne Fox scores the round: 10-9 Walker
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Walker

Round 2
The 205ers touch ‘em up, and two leg kicks come fast from Walker. The second knocks Cerqueira clean over, timed when Cerqueira was throwing. Walker leaps into top control, where he drives down ground-and-pound before considering an arm-triangle again. Walker bails on the sub so he can do work to the body and head in the closed guard. The moment Cerqueira opens his guard, Walker steps into half guard. Whether due to a head clash or some surprisingly effective offense off his back, Cerqueira appears to have cut Walker, who leaks on his chest. Cerqueira backs himself to the fence to stand, and Walker drags him back down. Although Cerqueira sits up again, Walker mat returns him once more, this time briefly lacing his legs beneath his opponent’s.
Cerqueira muscles his way back to a knee, and Walker has no interest in letting him as he rips knees to the chest while Cerqueira is on his seat. Cerqueira bursts back up, and Walker continues to knee him from up close. Cerqueira breaks free and lets his hands go, and Walker greets him with a heavy leg kick and three fierce punches. With Cerqueira shaken up by the third swing, Walker tackles him to the floor and lands in half guard. Walker looks for a guard pass, and he grips hold of the arm of Cerqueira again with 15 seconds to spare. Walker, his right eyebrow shredded open, tugs on the arm until the bell rings.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Walker
Dayne Fox scores the round: 10-9 Walker
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Walker

Round 3
There is a glove touch to commence the final frame, and they both get right to striking. Walker lands, and Cerqueira counters him and rocks him. Walker shoots desperately, and Cerqueira stands him up and tags him with three more punches. Walker is in big trouble, and he goes for a double again and is shoved to his back. Cerqueira allows him to stand back up, and he gets kneed in the groin and unloads huge punches. Walker summons every bit of energy remaining, opening up with two crushing punches that knock Cerqueira down to the ground. Walker celebrates this and lowers himself in the guard to smother him and get some wind back, but Cerqueira is not having it and forces his way to his feet. Cerqueira lobs the most telegraphed haymaker in history, and somehow it drills “Juice Box” in the jaw and puts him on ice skates. Walker wobbles back, and he shoots for a double in hopes of slowing things down. Cerqueira stuffs him and thinks about a guillotine choke, but he stands up instead. Walker strides forward, with a head of steam again, and he drills Cerqueira in the jaw with his fists. Chaining a takedown behind it, Walker is given a gift as Cerqueira jumps guard for a guillotine choke.
This is the best thing Walker could ask for, as he slowly but effectively beats Cerqueira up from on top. An arm-triangle choke is briefly in play, but Walker lets it go so he can stay on top and keep Cerqueira from hitting him back. Beltran asks for more activity, and Walker transforms into a wet blanket by smothering Cerqueira and keeping him stuck on the floor. Both men totally gassed, Cerqueira is still resorting to explosive escapes that somehow succeed. Cerqueira is dragged to a knee shortly after getting up, and Walker imposes every one of his 206-plus pounds on his opponent from behind. Cerqueira tries to hit a reversal, but he does not have enough reserves to pull it off. Walker remains sitting on top of his foe, working on him with punches until he hops over into mount with 15 seconds to spare. Walker wraps a rear-naked choke grip around the jaw, but Cerqueira turns to his back and lays down to end the one-sided match.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Walker (30-27 Walker)
Dayne Fox scores the round: 10-9 Walker (30-27 Walker)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Walker (30-27 Walker)

The Official Result
Julius Walker def. Raffael Cerqueira via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-26)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Lean picked Aug 3, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Julius Walker

Angelo picks Julius Walker but strongly advises against betting on him at -600. He notes Walker is winless in the UFC and lost to a 40-year-old, while Cerqueira has more KO wins than Walker has fights. Angelo thinks Walker will win due to raw athleticism but the risk-reward is terrible. He separates picks from bets.

Odds comment: -600 is terrible value, not worth betting.
"I'm going to pick the dude. I think he wins. But as I have said many, many, many times, picks and bets are not the same thing."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Aug 6, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Julius Walker

Big Brady is confident in Julius Walker, describing Cerqueira as not a real fighter based on limited footage showing him getting knocked out and fighting in a mall food court. He believes Walker's pressure will break Cerqueira quickly, as Cerqueira doesn't like to get hit. Brady predicts a first-round knockout for Walker.

first round knockout
"I like Walker here. I'm going to take Walker to win by first round knockout."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Lean picked Aug 8, 2025 (1 day before fight)
Julius Walker

Connor picks Walker because he has durability and will eventually land something on Cerqueira, who overreacts on defense and gets badly hurt when clipped. He notes Walker sat down and swung back against Menefield, and Cerqueira can't take that kind of power.

"Walker just because he's got the durability that sooner or later. He's gonna land something on sakura."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Aug 7, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Julius Walker

The host is critical of Cerqueira's ability to take shots, citing his previous fight. He believes Walker's athleticism, speed, and power will land big shots and get Cerqueira out of there in the first round.

round 1
"I think Walker utilizes his athleticism, speed, and power, and he'll land some big shots to eventually get Caka out of there in the first round."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Aug 8, 2025 (1 day before fight)
Julius Walker

The MMA Guru picks Julius Walker, criticizing Cerqueira's tendency to freeze under pressure. He notes Walker's competitive loss to Alonzo Menifield and believes Walker is underrated. He expects Walker to be aggressive early and finish Cerqueira, though he's unsure of the round.

Bet on Julius Walker fight time under 4.75 minutes as part of a parlay
"I've got to go with Julius Walker over Raphael Carera."
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Lean picked Aug 8, 2025 (1 day before fight)
Raffael Cerqueira

Zane picks Cerqueira because he is sharp and quick enough to nail Walker at will on the feet, and Walker is so undercooked that Cerqueira's durability might hold up. However, he calls it a coin flip because Walker could land something given his durability.

"I think I'll take a swing on sakura for not being incredibly easy to out grapple enough for Julius Walker to beat him and being sharp and quick enough that he can nail Julius Walker at will on the feet."
Decision R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Cejudo vs. Song · Feb 22, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Alonzo Menifield 0 87 of 147 59% 113 of 179 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:43
Julius Walker 0 86 of 171 50% 114 of 200 1 of 9 11% 0 0 5:31
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Alonzo Menifield 0 23 of 33 69% 38 of 51 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:32
Julius Walker 0 27 of 47 57% 41 of 62 0 of 4 0% 0 0 2:52
2 Alonzo Menifield 0 31 of 56 55% 33 of 58 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:05
Julius Walker 0 36 of 73 49% 39 of 76 1 of 4 25% 0 0 1:15
3 Alonzo Menifield 0 33 of 58 56% 42 of 70 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:06
Julius Walker 0 23 of 51 45% 34 of 62 0 of 1 0% 0 0 1:24
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Alonzo Menifield 87 of 147 59% 64 of 120 19 of 22 4 of 5 78 of 132 9 of 15 0 of 0
Julius Walker 86 of 171 50% 37 of 112 33 of 43 16 of 16 51 of 124 35 of 47 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Alonzo Menifield 23 of 33 69% 21 of 31 2 of 2 0 of 0 18 of 26 5 of 7 0 of 0
Julius Walker 27 of 47 57% 8 of 27 18 of 19 1 of 1 6 of 20 21 of 27 0 of 0
2 Alonzo Menifield 31 of 56 55% 20 of 43 9 of 10 2 of 3 29 of 51 2 of 5 0 of 0
Julius Walker 36 of 73 49% 20 of 51 9 of 15 7 of 7 27 of 59 9 of 14 0 of 0
3 Alonzo Menifield 33 of 58 56% 23 of 46 8 of 10 2 of 2 31 of 55 2 of 3 0 of 0
Julius Walker 23 of 51 45% 9 of 34 6 of 9 8 of 8 18 of 45 5 of 6 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Alonzo Menifield vs. Julius Walker

Round 1
The UFC knew exactly what it was doing when it matched this event. One more fight is about to play out with a battle-tested aggression machine in Menifield (15-5-1, 8-5-1 UFC) against a newcomer in Walker (6-0, 0-0 UFC) allergic to boring fights. It would be a surprise if this lasts more than five minutes, likely giving the judges some respite while referee Jason Herzog needs to be more ready than usual. There is no fist bump to get going, as Walker instead walks forward and grabs right hold of his opponent and pushes him to the wall. Menifield thwarts any early trip effort, while the newcomer mashes him against the fencing, working him with short knees. Walker attempts to elevate his foe, and this allows Menifield to briefly turn him about. The crowd does not particularly appreciate the lengthy clinch exchange, prompting Walker to drop down in pursuit of a double. Menifield stops this abruptly and knees his man in the belly, but he remains pinned to the wire. Walker breaks free and suddenly lurches forward with an overhand right that gets the veteran’s attention. Menifield shakes out the cobwebs and halts another takedown try, but he gets popped on the exit with a right hand. Walker loses his balance when kicking high, falling to the ground, and Menifield charges at him in pursuit of his own double. Walker springs away and turns things around on his foe, but Menifield pushes him back around. Walker scores a knee and a few punches, but Menifield breaks and responds with strikes far heavier. A rocked Walker desperately goes after a double, and “Atomic Alonzo” stifles the try and pushes off. Menifield walks his man down and socks him in the face, and he leans back to dodge a knee. Menifield goes for broke with winging strikes, and he walks through an elbow to knock Walker’s head around the Octagon. Walker smashes Menifield in the face with a crisp knee, and Menifield does not bat an eye and goes all-out on attack. Menifield wraps up a standing arm-triangle choke after brushing off a spin strike, and Walker breaks out of it and jams several knees to the body. They continue jockeying for position, with Walker the one striking more frequently when clinched. Menifield gets away and is slapped in the face by the unbeaten fighter’s foot, and the two trade vicious leather until the bell.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Walker
Devin Tejada scores the round: 10-9 Walker
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Menifield

Round 2
The light heavyweights meet in the middle after five sloppy, dangerous minutes, and they both are a bit tired from it. Walker keeps behind his jab early, punching his way into a takedown, only to get dropped to a knee from a Menifield right hand. Walker keeps himself together enough to crash forward and pursue a takedown, and he lets it go so he can knee Menifield in the face a few times. Menifield evades a few front kicks and absorbs two low kicks so he can let Walker fly past him with a follow-up jump knee, and he stands firm in defiance of a takedown effort. Walker drills his man in the face with another knee, and Menifield ducks a strike and clinches. Menifield reaches out with a right hand, and he counters a jab with a left hook. Walker strides forward to attack, with Menifield’s hands down by his waist, but this might be a trap. Menifield sits down on a powerful counter, and Walker walks through it and throws everything he has at his opponent. Menifield takes the strikes flush or off his guard, and he swings back with reckless abandon. Technique and energy might be low, but the aggression remains high. Menifield takes a knee so he can give back a punch, and he keeps his guard up long enough to defend a pair of high kicks. A jab to the body from Menifield stumbles Walker, who gathers his thoughts and eats a cracking low kick. Walker kicks him back, draws a visible reaction, and absorbs a pair of punches on the chin. Menifield surges forward, putting his hands on the chin, and Walker stumbles forward and catches himself before going down. Menifield works the body and opens a left hook up, and he beans Walker with a right hand on the beard. Walker keeps him on his feet and flashes a jab, and a second is met with a power right hand. Walker succeeds to get the fight down, and Menifield springs up by elbowing his man on the side of the dome. One more attempted takedown from Walker wraps up the round.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Menifield
Devin Tejada scores the round: 10-9 Menifield
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Menifield

Round 3
As the third round opens, Menifield paws out and pokes Walker square in the eyeball. Herzog rolls his eyes and calls time, allowing the fighters to recover while warning Menifield for his obvious foul. Walker does not take long to get going again, and Menifield starts off first with a pair of lunging punches. The second knocks Walker’s mouthguard out, and he gets a second to replace it. Menifield intercepts his man coming in with a left hook, and he catches Walker a second time with one. Walker answers in kind, but Menifield’s knock his foe’s head about while Walker is more touching. One body kick from Walker is much harder, but his jabs that follow are about setting things up rather than sheer damage. On the other hand, Menifield fires off a power jab that snaps the head back. Walker moves forward to push Menifield against the wall, and he drives a knee directly into the cup. Menifield cries foul, and Herzog acknowledges it and gives the Texan time to recover. After less than a minute, Herzog brings the two together to tell them that even though they are both tired, more fouls equal point deductions. The fight kicks off again, and Menifield swings for the bleachers. Walker takes several strikes up top, and he sits down on a few low kicks to disrupt the balance of “Atomic Alonzo.” Menifield is all power, all day, and he swings his way open to defend a double. The prolonged clinch exchange allows Walker to score a few knees while keeping the wide swinging blows from Menifield off the table. Walker looks for a single or double, and Menifield is having none of it. The audience expresses its disapproval of the fighters as 90 seconds remain on the clock, clearly spoiled from the action from tonight. They split up and keep throwing, and Menifield catches his man with a left and just misses on a follow-up right. This happens a few more times, with Walker dancing just far enough away to not get cracked. Menifield keeps landing cleanly, and he takes a knee on the jaw that makes a clicking sound. Menifield steels himself and unloads a few bombs, and Walker is tough as nails as he keeps plodding forward. Menifield chases the newcomer around with a final flurry, and Walker escapes before getting downed. The fighters reach the 15-minute mark, with the final bell sounding for the first time tonight.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Menifield (29-28 Menifield)
Devin Tejada scores the round: 10-9 Menifield (29-28 Menifield)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Menifield (30-27 Menifield)

The Official Result
Alonzo Menifield def. Julius Walker via Split Decision (28-29, 30-27, 29-28)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Feb 16, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Alonzo Menifield

Angelo picks Alonzo Menifield confidently, arguing that despite a two-fight losing streak, Menifield's losses are to elite competition (Carlos Ulberg, Azamat Murzakanov) who would steamroll a newcomer like Julius Walker. He notes Walker has only been a pro for two years and has holes in takedown defense. Angelo placed a full unit on Menifield at -140.

Bet: 1 unit on Menifield moneyline at -140
"I put a full unit on him at minus 140... Alonzo Menifield has too much experience, too much power, overall just too good to lose to a flashy newcomer."
BI
Big Brady Expert Lean picked Feb 17, 2025 (5 days before fight)
Alonzo Menifield

Big Brady picks Alonzo Menifield despite back-to-back brutal knockout losses, because he loves the stylistic matchup. He notes that Julius Walker is a wild striker who is hittable and looks to grapple, but Menifield has good takedown defense and is physically strong. He believes if the fight stays standing, Menifield is the much better striker and will land something big, predicting a first-round knockout. However, he is worried about Menifield's chin at 37.

by first round knockout
"I got to go menafield here um give me menafield by first round knockout I think he stuffs a take down I think he he lands something big"
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Feb 20, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Alonzo Menifield

Connor picks Menifield, agreeing that Walker looks like a complete novice and is not UFC ready. He notes that Menifield can win any way he wants, and that Walker has never faced a good fighter. Connor expects Menifield to win easily, possibly by knockout.

"i think menafield can win this basically any way he wants"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Feb 20, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Alonzo Menifield

The host expects Menifield's experience and power to exploit Walker's striking defense flaws. He predicts Menifield will score a knockout victory, though notes Walker could surprise.

"I believe the experience and power of menafield will be able to take advantage of some of the Striking defense flaws I've seen from Walker Walker could surprise but I have to go with the veteran here and I think …"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Feb 21, 2025 (1 day before fight)
Alonzo Menifield

The Guru picks Menifield as an underdog, believing Walker is being brought up too soon. He notes Menifield's grappling can shut down offense, he has power throughout the fight, and decent cardio. Despite Pat Barry being his coach (which he mocks), he thinks Menifield will teach the younger Walker a lesson.

"I'm going to have to go with uh I'm going to go Alonzo manyfield he can grapple he can shut down grappling offense"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Feb 20, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Alonzo Menifield

Zane picks Menifield because Walker is a raw novice with terrible footwork and no comfort on the feet. He notes that Walker's only path is to take Menifield down and use his top game, but Menifield is a good athlete with much more experience. Zane expects Menifield to knock Walker out easily.

"menafield should knock him out"
Expert Picks (9)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Feb 1, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Angelo picks Dustin Jacoby confidently, calling him too good of a striker and grappler with too much experience. He notes Jacoby's high-level kickboxing, technical striking, and solid takedown defense. He dismisses Julius Walker as sloppy and reliant on raw athleticism, and believes Jacoby will win easily. He hopes the odds are reasonable and will include Jacoby in parlays.

"Dustin Jacobe wins this fight. He's too good of a striker, too good of a grappler, has too much experience."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Feb 1, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Big Brady picks Dustin Jacoby, citing his superior striking and elite takedown defense. He notes that Julius Walker was pieced up by Raphael Sakara on the feet, which bodes poorly against a much better striker in Jacoby. He expects Jacoby to knock out Walker, likely in the first round.

by first round knockout
"I think Jacobe knocks him out. I'm going to go into Dustin Jacobe here. I think it's a first round knockout."
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Hesitant picked Feb 4, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Cody hesitantly picks Dustin Jacoby, acknowledging the experience gap but noting Jacoby's travel and short notice. He admits his heart wants Walker but struggles to overlook Jacoby's experience. Cody does not bet on Jacoby and expects a competitive fight.

"I haven't bet Dustin Jacobe. Everything in my being tells me to bet Dustin Jacobe."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Feb 5, 2026 (2 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Connor agrees with Zane, noting that Jacobi is still dangerous with single shots and that Walker's style of walking in will give Jacobi opportunities. He thinks Jacobi will respond with offense if put in a scary situation, but the fight could be a grind. He calls it a sucky fight between two failed experiments.

Same odds discussion.
"I'm going to pick Jacobi here."
LU
Lucrative James Expert Hesitant picked Feb 1, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Lucrative James picks Dustin Jacoby to win, citing his massive experience and striking advantage, as well as good takedown defense. However, he is hesitant due to Jacoby's age and potential chin decline. James notes that if Jacoby is an underdog, he would bet him, but he acknowledges Walker's grappling could be a threat.

"I'm gonna go with Dustin Jacobe for the win though, guys. And the reason is because he has too much of a experience advantage and a massive massive striking advantage and very good takedown defense."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Feb 3, 2026 (4 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

The host picks Jacoby by knockout, but notes reduced confidence due to Jacoby cornering a teammate in Australia a week before the fight. He believes Jacoby's superior striking and defensive grappling will allow him to pick Walker apart and eventually land a big shot. He expects Walker to struggle to get takedowns and be forced to strike, where Jacoby has the advantage.

knockout win
"So, give me Jacobe and Jacobe by knockout."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Feb 4, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Julius Walker

Paul picks Julius Walker as a dog, citing Jacoby's short notice, travel from Australia, and age (37). He notes Walker's youth, athleticism, and improvement, especially his wrestling. Paul believes Walker can take Jacoby down and control the fight, though he admits bias due to connections.

"I am actually going to end up taking a dog play on Julius Walker. Not super confident."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Feb 7, 2026 (fight day)
Dustin Jacoby

The host picks Dustin Jacoby over Julius Walker. He thinks Jacoby is underrated, citing his win over Vitor Petrino and competitive fight with Azamat Murzakanov. He notes Walker looked sloppy against Rafael Cacara. He predicts a decision win for Jacoby, 29-28 or 30-27.

decision 29-28 or 30-27
"I'm going to go with Jacoby. I think he's on a level another level of experience to Julius Walker."
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Feb 5, 2026 (2 days before fight)
Dustin Jacoby

Zane picks Jacoby because he is a good technical kickboxer who can finish with single shots. He notes that Walker is tough but walks in with his chin up and feet flat, making him vulnerable. However, he warns that Jacoby's hesitancy could make the fight ugly, similar to his fight against Alonzo Menifield.

Jacoby opened at -135, currently -185; Walker opened at +115, currently +160.
"I'm going to pick Dustin Jacobi."