vs
-800 +730
UFC Fight Night: Taira vs. Park · Aug 02, 2025 · Featherweight · Completed
Prev Fight UFC Fight Night: Taira vs. Park Next Fight
Age 24
Height 5' 6"
Reach 70.0"
Weight 145 lbs.
Stance Orthodox
Age 31
Height 5' 7"
Reach 70"
Weight 135 lbs.
Stance Southpaw
Career Averages - Austin Bashi
1.75 SLpM
47.0% Str. Acc.
2.34 SApM
48.0% Str. Def.
7.81 TD Avg
41.0% TD Acc.
62.0% TD Def.
1.7 Sub. Avg
Career Averages - John Yannis
3.3 SLpM
53.0% Str. Acc.
0.55 SApM
71.0% Str. Def.
0.0 TD Avg
0.0% TD Acc.
66.0% TD Def.
0.0 Sub. Avg
Austin Bashi
Moneyline
BetWay -800
KO/TKO
FanDuel +600
Submission
BetMGM -105
Decision
Unibet +255
John Yannis
Moneyline
FanDuel +730
KO/TKO
FanDuel +1800
Submission
Unibet +4000
Decision
FanDuel +1200
Austin Bashi - Fight History
WIN vs John Yannis
SUB R1 3:39 · UFC Fight Night: Taira vs. Park · Aug 02, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Austin Bashi 0 2 of 7 28% 48 of 67 1 of 1 100% 1 0 2:53
John Yannis 0 0 of 5 0% 2 of 9 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Austin Bashi 0 2 of 7 28% 48 of 67 1 of 1 100% 1 0 2:53
John Yannis 0 0 of 5 0% 2 of 9 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Austin Bashi 2 of 7 28% 2 of 7 0 of 0 0 of 0 2 of 6 0 of 0 0 of 1
John Yannis 0 of 5 0% 0 of 4 0 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 5 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Austin Bashi 2 of 7 28% 2 of 7 0 of 0 0 of 0 2 of 6 0 of 0 0 of 1
John Yannis 0 of 5 0% 0 of 4 0 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 5 0 of 0 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Austin Bashi vs. John Yannis
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Bashi (-550); Yannis (+400)

Round 1
On ultra-short notice, Michigan native Bashi (13-1, 0-1 UFC) finds himself staring across the Octagon from Yannis (9-3, 0-0 UFC), a striker by trade. This shifted stylistic clash to one more in line with the grappler-striker archetype will be overseen by referee Mark Smith, and the featherweights opt to bump fists.
The newcomer takes to the center of the cage, keeping his guard up to block a head kick from the massive betting favorite Bashi. Yannis whiffs with a big punch, and Bashi responds with a mighty hook that knocks Yannis back to the wall. Yannis ricochets off to retaliate, but Bashi is nowhere to be struck. Bashi rushes at his foe and completes a single-leg takedown, lifting Yannis in the air and slamming him to the mat. Yannis scrambles, but he gives his back up along the way. Bashi takes it, and he lets Yannis stand up so he can cling to him like a malevolent backpack that hits him in the face. Bashi softens his foe up while Yannis lowers himself back to the floor, and the underdog tries all he might to shake Bashi of him. Bashi stays on the back spamming heavy right hands, allowing Yannis to turn so he can gain control of a traditional back take.
Bashi secures a body triangle while beating on Yannis on either side of the head. Yannis breaks out of the body lock while under fire, and he crawls the fence to wall-walk with Bashi still behind him.
Bashi, still on Yannis’ back, grips hold of a rear-naked choke and torques his way back to put ample pressure on Yannis’ throat. The submission is tight as a drum and going nowhere, and before Yannis drops to the floor and goes out, he surrenders.
The crowd in the Apex loudly cheers the victory of the Michigan native, with a fair number of fans in the building for the biggest favorite of the evening cashing without likely absorbing a single significant strike. That is one way to bounce back from your first career loss, by running over the next person placed in front of you.

The Official Result
Austin Bashi def. John Yannis R1 3:39 via Submission (Rear-Naked Choke)
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Dern vs. Ribas 2 · Jan 11, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Christian Rodriguez 0 44 of 82 53% 55 of 93 2 of 4 50% 2 2 3:20
Austin Bashi 0 23 of 50 46% 32 of 60 3 of 18 16% 0 0 5:41
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Christian Rodriguez 0 7 of 18 38% 9 of 20 1 of 2 50% 2 1 1:14
Austin Bashi 0 8 of 13 61% 11 of 16 1 of 6 16% 0 0 2:16
2 Christian Rodriguez 0 14 of 18 77% 19 of 23 0 of 0 --- 0 1 0:24
Austin Bashi 0 5 of 15 33% 11 of 22 2 of 7 28% 0 0 2:44
3 Christian Rodriguez 0 23 of 46 50% 27 of 50 1 of 2 50% 0 0 1:42
Austin Bashi 0 10 of 22 45% 10 of 22 0 of 5 0% 0 0 0:41
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Christian Rodriguez 44 of 82 53% 32 of 68 12 of 14 0 of 0 32 of 66 8 of 12 4 of 4
Austin Bashi 23 of 50 46% 12 of 34 9 of 11 2 of 5 17 of 43 5 of 6 1 of 1
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Christian Rodriguez 7 of 18 38% 5 of 16 2 of 2 0 of 0 3 of 14 4 of 4 0 of 0
Austin Bashi 8 of 13 61% 3 of 7 3 of 4 2 of 2 5 of 10 3 of 3 0 of 0
2 Christian Rodriguez 14 of 18 77% 13 of 16 1 of 2 0 of 0 11 of 15 1 of 1 2 of 2
Austin Bashi 5 of 15 33% 2 of 10 3 of 3 0 of 2 4 of 13 1 of 2 0 of 0
3 Christian Rodriguez 23 of 46 50% 14 of 36 9 of 10 0 of 0 18 of 37 3 of 7 2 of 2
Austin Bashi 10 of 22 45% 7 of 17 3 of 4 0 of 1 8 of 20 1 of 1 1 of 1
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Austin Bashi vs. Christian Rodriguez

Round 1
In three of his last four outings, Rodriguez (11-2, 4-2 UFC) has donned his prospect-killer hat while staving off an undefeated opponent. This comes to a head once more for “CeeRod,” as this time he battles Michigan-based up-and-comer Bashi (13-0, 0-0 UFC) in hopes of spoiling one more flawless record. Whether he succeeds or fails, referee Chris Tognoni will be on top of things from start to finish. There is a sporting glove touch to commence the featherweight scrap, and Rodriguez nails the newcomer with a right hand and a flying knee. Bashi takes them on the chin and attempts a takedown, only to be easily stuffed by the underdog. Bashi pushes Rodriguez up against the fence and goes all-in for a takedown, as Rodriguez sets him down in 50-50 position. Rodriguez snatches hold of a power guillotine choke, turning Bashi to the side and wrenching him to the floor. Bashi, still in submission danger, works his way up to his feet, and he wriggles out of the choke and backs Rodriguez off with strikes. Rodriguez feints with loud stomps, drawing reactions out of the newcomer every time. A head kick from Rodriguez gets up quick, and he changes levels to ground Bashi. Rodriguez waits to line up a legal knee when Bashi stands, planting one on the torso and retreating. Bashi follows him, considers a takedown and elects to leap on Rodriguez’ back standing up. Rodriguez controls Bashi’s right arm with both hands, looking to shake Bashi off of him. When he does not fall off, Bashi resets and hooks a triangle around Rodriguez’ hips. Rodriguez fights the leg grip and does not let Bashi get a choke in, and he forces Bashi to release him. Rodriguez pushes back to get enough space to strike, and he follows a strafing Bashi and flusters him with a stomp on the mat before spurring into action. Bashi clings to “CeeRod” where he elevates and dumps Rodriguez to the ground. Rodriguez sweeps him with relative ease, but he does not establish top control as he wishes to engage on the feet. Bashi ties him up with the clinch and pushes him to the wire, but it is Rodriguez who takes advantage of the close proximity with a spinning back elbow. Bashi tags him back with a right hand before the bell.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Rodriguez
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Rodriguez
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Rodriguez

Round 2
A calm Rodriguez meanders out of his corner to commence the round, and he skillfully tags Bashi from afar without letting the relative neophyte score much back. Bashi dives in deep for a single and succeeds in putting Rodriguez on his seat, only for Rodriguez to get back up before one second elapses. Bashi goes for a double and scoops Rodriguez off the ground to put him down, and this time, he lowers himself into top position. Rodriguez elbows his man off his back while scrambling, and this allows Bashi to take his back and wrap his legs around the waist again. Rodriguez grips the ankle to turn Bashi about, and he uses elbows to further break the leg grip. Rodriguez peels his foe off of him and knees him in the belly, and he takes an elbow on the break. Rodriguez peppers out a jab and evades a swinging right hand, preparing himself for a takedown that inevitably comes. An irritated Rodriguez falls to his back, and Bashi quickly advances to three-quarter mount so he can hop to the side instead of full mount. Bashi works the body with knees all while maintaining heavy chest pressure, and Rodriguez still turns him around and thwarts a submission setup. Rodriguez pushes Bashi over and nearly sneaks into mount, and he pushes off the back of the neck to stand. Bashi tries to follow him with a spinning back elbow, and he is met with a knee on the jaw. Rodriguez cracks the newcomer with an uppercut and a right hand, and Bashi takes a breath and shoots. Rodriguez sprawls to keep himself upright, turning the corner to put Bashi on his knees. Bashi reasserts going for his takedown attempt, and the round ends.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Bashi
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Bashi
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Bashi

Round 3
In three of his last four outings, Rodriguez (11-2, 4-2 UFC) has donned his prospect-killer hat while staving off an undefeated opponent. This comes to a head once more for “CeeRod,” as this time he battles Michigan-based up-and-comer Bashi (13-0, 0-0 UFC) in hopes of spoiling one more flawless record. Whether he succeeds or fails, referee Chris Tognoni will be on top of things from start to finish. There is a sporting glove touch to commence the featherweight scrap, and Rodriguez nails the newcomer with a right hand and a flying knee. Bashi takes them on the chin and attempts a takedown, only to be easily stuffed by the underdog. Bashi pushes Rodriguez up against the fence and goes all-in for a takedown, as Rodriguez sets him down in 50-50 position. Rodriguez snatches hold of a power guillotine choke, turning Bashi to the side and wrenching him to the floor. Bashi, still in submission danger, works his way up to his feet, and he wriggles out of the choke and backs Rodriguez off with strikes. Rodriguez feints with loud stomps, drawing reactions out of the newcomer every time. A head kick from Rodriguez gets up quick, and he changes levels to ground Bashi. Rodriguez waits to line up a legal knee when Bashi stands, planting one on the torso and retreating. Bashi follows him, considers a takedown and elects to leap on Rodriguez’ back standing up. Rodriguez controls Bashi’s right arm with both hands, looking to shake Bashi off of him. When he does not fall off, Bashi resets and hooks a triangle around Rodriguez’ hips. Rodriguez fights the leg grip and does not let Bashi get a choke in, and he forces Bashi to release him. Rodriguez pushes back to get enough space to strike, and he follows a strafing Bashi and flusters him with a stomp on the mat before spurring into action. Bashi clings to “CeeRod” where he elevates and dumps Rodriguez to the ground. Rodriguez sweeps him with relative ease, but he does not establish top control as he wishes to engage on the feet. Bashi ties him up with the clinch and pushes him to the wire, but it is Rodriguez who takes advantage of the close proximity with a spinning back elbow. Bashi tags him back with a right hand before the bell.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Rodriguez (29-28 Rodriguez)
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Rodriguez (29-28 Rodriguez)
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Rodriguez (29-28 Rodriguez)

The Official Result
Christian Rodriguez def. Austin Bashi via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jan 5, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Austin Bashi

Angelo picks Austin Bashi, believing he is a better prospect than those Christian Rodriguez has beaten before. He notes Bashi's well-rounded skills, particularly his grappling and improved striking. He thinks Bashi's wrestling and cardio will be too much for Rodriguez, who has been submitted before. He considers Bashi safe to bet on despite being a UFC debutant.

"I think Austin bashy is better than those other guys because of the Striking first of all ... Austin bashley should win this fight and I think he gets it done and I actually think he's safe to bet on …"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Jan 8, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Austin Bashi

Big Brady is extremely high on Bashi, calling him the number one prospect from contender series. He notes Bashi is well-rounded, has great cardio, and can wrestle for 15 minutes, unlike previous undefeated prospects who gassed against Rodriguez. He acknowledges Rodriguez has beaten undefeated prospects before, but believes Bashi's cardio and durability will be the difference. He predicts Bashi wins by decision in a close fight.

"I'm going to go Bashi here I'm going to take Bashi to probably win this fight by decision"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Jan 8, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Austin Bashi

Cody picks Bashi despite the high price, believing his wrestling and youth will overwhelm Rodriguez. He notes Rodriguez's poor takedown defense and weight misses at 135. He expects Bashi to secure takedowns and win two of three rounds.

"for my personal take he's the pick I got Austin bosy to pick up his first UFC win"
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Jan 9, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Christian Rodriguez

Connor picks Rodriguez because of his experience and craft, despite being physically outmatched. Rodriguez is an excellent scrambler, patient, and persistent, and he has shown he can outlast stronger opponents like Dulgarian. Bashi is a great prospect, but this is a tough stylistic matchup for him. Connor notes that Rodriguez's boxing and positional grappling are high-level, and he believes Rodriguez's determination and fight IQ will carry him through.

"I just think I'm going to go with Rodriguez."
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Jan 9, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Austin Bashi

Daniel thinks Rodriguez is in the wrong weight class (too small for featherweight) and has had issues with grapplers who gas, but Bashi has endless cardio and strong grappling. He predicts Bashi will have grappling success and win a decision, similar to Rodriguez's previous fights but without the gas issue. He notes the odds have moved from -190 to -270, making it a pass for betting.

pass on betting due to odds movement
"I'm going to just tell you I'm picking Austin bashy here but minus 270 is trash"
LU
Lucrative James Expert Lean picked Jan 8, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Christian Rodriguez

Lucrative James leans toward Christian Rodriguez at plus 250, citing Rodriguez's proven track record against undefeated prospects. He believes Rodriguez is the better striker and has improved his anti-wrestling. He notes that Bashi is a strong grappler but making his UFC debut, which often leads to underperformance. He also mentions that Rodriguez is not a natural featherweight, which is a concern. He hasn't fully decided on a bet yet but sees value.

"I think Cod is the better striker in this matchup right I think if the fight is on the feet cod's going to win and he definitely won't look plus 250"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Jan 10, 2025 (1 day before fight)
Christian Rodriguez

Rodriguez is a good scrambler and defensive grappler who can cause Bashi trouble in establishing dominant positions. He can then get the fight to striking, where he is the cleaner and superior striker, landing more damage and winning on the scorecards.

"I believe Rodriguez is a good enough Scrambler and good enough defensive Grappler that he should be able to cause bashy trouble in terms of trying to establish a dominant position and from there Rodriguez should be able to get …"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Jan 8, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Christian Rodriguez

Paul leans toward Rodriguez as a dog, questioning Bashi's readiness despite his potential. He notes Rodriguez's experience against prospects and Bashi's greenness. He suggests live betting Bashi after round one if he comes out hot.

live bet on Bashi after round 1
"another dogger pass situation here for me"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jan 9, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Austin Bashi

The Guru picks Bashi, impressed by his wrestling and experience. He notes Bashi's undefeated record (13-0) and better competition compared to Rodriguez's loss to Julian Erosa. He thinks Bashi's standup is better than R. Rosas Jr.'s and predicts a 29-28 decision, with Rodriguez having a good third round but not enough. He warns that Bashi sometimes fails to capitalize on takedowns and is open on the feet.

29-28 decision
"I'm going to side with him to win this fight and I think he'll get it done I don't think he'll get a finish though"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Jan 9, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Austin Bashi

Zane picks Bashi despite acknowledging it's the wrong matchup for him. He believes Bashi's athletic upside, endless motor, and physicality will allow him to get early advantages and maintain them. Bashi is stronger and better put together than fighters like Raul Rosas, and he doesn't gas out like Dulgarian. Zane thinks Bashi's superior athleticism and cardio will be the difference, even if Rodriguez is more experienced.

"I am actually going to pick Bashi here."
John Yannis - Fight History
SCHED vs Marcus McGhee
13
138 MMA Expert Confident picked May 30, 2026 (7 days before fight)
Marcus McGhee

The host picks Marcus McGhee, noting that McGhee is a good striker with forward pressure and quick hands, and that he has solid grappling which he typically uses defensively but could use offensively here. The host believes McGhee has the style to beat Yannis, especially if he mixes in grappling, though he acknowledges that if it stays on the feet it could be close. The host is confident in McGhee as a big favorite.

"I'm going to take McGhee."
AJ
AJ DeVito Expert Confident picked Jun 1, 2026 (5 days before fight)
Marcus McGhee

AJ picks McGhee, citing his slick southpaw striking, speed, and combination punching. He acknowledges Yannis's power and toughness but believes McGhee's craftiness and stance will neutralize Yannis's leg kicks. AJ expects a competitive fight but McGhee to outpoint Yannis, possibly by decision, though a knockout is possible.

over 2.5 rounds plus 140; McGhee by decision
"I'm going with Marcus McGee. I really liked John Yanis last time out... but Marcus McGee is slick. Marcus McGee is lightning speed fast."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Jun 3, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Marcus McGhee

Big Brady picks Marcus McGhee to win by decision. He thinks McGhee is on another level skill-wise and hits harder, but he doesn't love the price tag because McGhee is primarily a striker and Yannis' grappling is poor. He expects McGhee to win but notes the price is wide.

by decision
"Give me Marcus McGee to win this fight and win it by decision."
BU
Bum MMA Expert Confident picked May 30, 2026 (7 days before fight)
Marcus McGhee

Marcus McGhee is a clear favorite due to his superior striking and experience. He took a round off Peter Yan and has a good jab that will trouble John Yannis. McGhee is expected to find a KO shot, possibly in the first round, as Yannis relies on his hands and lacks other skills.

KO in first round
"I think he'll knock out John Giannis in the first round."
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Jun 3, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Marcus McGhee

Cody is very confident in McGhee, citing his power, striking, and defensive wrestling. He notes Yannis has poor takedown defense and gives up his back. McGhee's level of competition is far superior, and this is a major step down for him.

"Marcus McGee all over the place for me this week."
FI
Fight Night Picks Expert Confident picked May 31, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Marcus McGhee

Marcus McGhee is picked because he has more weapons on the feet and can mix in wrestling. John Yannis has good boxing but overcommits on his left hand, which McGhee can counter with body locks and trips. McGhee's cardio may be an issue, but he should take over after 1.5 rounds and win by decision. The host questions the matchmaking as McGhee is ranked much higher.

Marcus McGhee wins by decision
"Marcus McGee should win. ... I think he wins uh via decision."
GR
Greedo Plays MMA Expert Confident picked May 30, 2026 (7 days before fight)
Marcus McGhee

McGhee is a borderline top-15 bantamweight who fought competitively with champion Merab Dvalishvili. Yannis is not on that level and took the fight on short notice. McGhee should win by first-round knockout.

first round knockout
"I like Marcus McGee to win this fight by first round knockout against John Yanis."
LU
Lucrative James Expert Lean picked May 30, 2026 (7 days before fight)
John Yannis

Lucrative James picks John Yannis as a significant underdog, arguing the odds are too wide. He believes the fight is close skill-for-skill and that Marcus McGhee's advantages are physical attributes rather than technique. He notes McGhee's age (36) and potential motivation issues after fighting Petr Yan, and sees value on Yannis' moneyline, predicting a decision win.

"I'm going to pick John Giannis in this fight as a plus 400 underdog."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Jun 1, 2026 (5 days before fight)
Marcus McGhee

McGhee's athleticism, speed, and power should be too much for Yannis, who is a technical striker but lacks explosiveness. McGhee can mix in takedowns and land significant damage. However, the -450 line is too steep; McGhee should be around -185 to -233. Passing on the chalk, but picking McGhee by decision.

McGhee by decision; line should be closer to -185 to -233
"I think that athleticism is going to be tough for Giannis to overcome and I think that will ultimately be the differencemaker here for McGee."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Jun 3, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Marcus McGhee

Paul picks McGhee, noting his stronger strikes and movement. He expects McGhee to dominate standing, similar to his fight against Jonathan Martinez. He has added McGhee to parlays.

"Markson, rifle favorite, a guy I have added to some parlays this week."
WIN vs Jamie Siraj
KO R1 2:43 · UFC Fight Night: Burns vs. Malott · Apr 18, 2026
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Jamie Siraj 0 6 of 24 25% 6 of 24 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:00
John Yannis 1 21 of 34 61% 21 of 34 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:09
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Jamie Siraj 0 6 of 24 25% 6 of 24 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:00
John Yannis 1 21 of 34 61% 21 of 34 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:09
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Jamie Siraj 6 of 24 25% 4 of 17 2 of 5 0 of 2 6 of 24 0 of 0 0 of 0
John Yannis 21 of 34 61% 12 of 24 8 of 8 1 of 2 16 of 27 0 of 0 5 of 7
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Jamie Siraj 6 of 24 25% 4 of 17 2 of 5 0 of 2 6 of 24 0 of 0 0 of 0
John Yannis 21 of 34 61% 12 of 24 8 of 8 1 of 2 16 of 27 0 of 0 5 of 7
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Jamie Siraj vs. John Yannis
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Siraj (-250); Yannis (+200)

Round 1
It’s Canada against the world in this rough UFC Fight Night card that may yet deliver in terms of action but is sorely lacking in the rankings-relevance department. Nevertheless, we persist, as there are 43 fight cards to punch through this year and a fight fan does not dine on caviar alone. The ground turkey of a fight card provides 12 matches, with nine of those featuring a Canadian athlete against a foreign adversary. The first fight of the night is one of those bouts when newcomers collide, as Siraj (14-3, 0-0 UFC) reps his home country against Texas-based Yannis (9-4, 0-1 UFC) at 135 pounds. Drawing the first assignment of the evening is referee Chris Desautels. The combatants touch ‘em up to seal the cage around them, and it’s time for some action.
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Yannis, keeping his hands relatively low, positions himself early in the center of the cage. Siraj switches stances back and forth to introduce early difficulties to his foe, with the Canadian primed and ready to fire off heavy counters. He steps in, lands a low kick and hops back to evade one coming back at him. They pump-fake at one another until Siraj spurs into action with a right hand and a pair of front kicks. Yannis sits on a left hand to get Siraj’s attention, but he is similarly caught in an exchange. Yannis drills his opponent with a three-punch combo square on the jaw, knocking Siraj down to the mat. Rather than playing around in the guard, Yannis stands back up and allows Siraj to follow him, clipping him with another right on the way up. Siraj appears to have shaken the cobwebs out quickly, but he ducks down for a level change and has his bell rung again. Yannis staggers and erects himself upright again, but it is taking the right hand flush again and again.
Yannis opens up with a knee and another power right hook, shaking the Canadian up. Siraj collapses to his back in a bad way, and Yannis mounts his adversary and punishes him with ferocious elbows. Siraj might have been knocked out from the bombardment of elbows, and as he sits up, his eyes looking every direction but his opponent’s, Desautels waves the fight off as he must have seen something he did not like.
Yannis climbs off his fallen foe to celebrate, while the defeated Canadian breaks down in tears. The thrill of victory and the agony of defeat in one scene.

The Official Result
John Yannis
def.
Jamie Siraj
R1 2:43 via TKO (Punches and Elbows)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Apr 12, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Jamie Siraj

Angelo picks Jamie Siraj because he believes Jamie's wrestling, though not dominant, is sufficient to exploit John Yannis's poor takedown defense. He notes that Yannis was cut after a submission loss and re-signed, and that the fight was made to showcase the Canadian. He advises caution on betting if odds are too short.

"The answer to that question was yes, Jamie can wrestle. He has wrestling. It's not great, and that's the unfortunate part."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Apr 14, 2026 (4 days before fight)
Jamie Siraj

Big Brady picks Jamie Siraj based on his grappling advantage. He notes Siraj is a BJJ black belt with good wrestling and cardio, and that half his wins come by submission. He highlights John Yannis' struggles with takedowns and back-taking, citing losses to Austin Bashi and Nick Aguirre. Brady predicts Siraj will get takedowns and submit Yannis in the second round.

submission in round 2
"I'm going Siraj here. I'm going to take Siraj to get the takedowns and submit John Niangos in the second round."
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Apr 15, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Jamie Siraj

Cody picks Jamie Siraj but is not confident due to his durability issues. He notes that Siraj has good grappling and cardio, but his chin is a concern. He suggests a small play or live betting.

"I got Siraj. I just don't overpay for it because Paul's not wrong at all."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Lean picked Apr 17, 2026 (1 day before fight)
Jamie Siraj

Connor picks Siraj because he fights through ugly fights to find a way to win, whereas Yannis tries to be a low-output, crafty striker without the athleticism to carry it. He notes that Siraj is not bigger than Yannis, so crashing into the clinch won't put him at an athletic disadvantage like it does against better athletes. He sees Siraj's determination as the difference.

Siraj opened at -250, now -256; Yannis opened at +210, now +216
"I'm going to take Sarai just because I think he isn't trying to be cute with it."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Apr 14, 2026 (4 days before fight)
Jamie Siraj

The host believes Siraj will find a submission spot and force Yannis to tap. He notes that Siraj has a solid wrestling game for a BJJ specialist and a great gas tank, and that Yannis has shown issues in the grappling game. He expects Siraj to chain takedown attempts and eventually find a submission.

Siraj by submission
"I think it's just a matter of time before Siraj is able to find a submission spot and I think he forces the tap here from Yannis."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Apr 15, 2026 (3 days before fight)
John Yannis

Paul picks John Yannis as a dog, citing Siraj's durability issues. He notes that Yannis has power and that Siraj has been knocked down by lesser fighters. He expects Yannis to have a chance if he can land early.

"I took a small play on John on Yan like plus 224."
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Lean picked Apr 17, 2026 (1 day before fight)
Jamie Siraj

Zane initially says he'll take Siraj too, but then jokingly switches to Yannis for a fake disagreement. However, his genuine pick appears to be Siraj, as he earlier agreed with Connor's reasoning. He notes that both fighters are bad, but Siraj at least tries to win ugly fights, while Yannis has a low-output style that doesn't work without elite athleticism.

Siraj opened at -250, now -256; Yannis opened at +210, now +216
"I guess I'll take Sarai too."
LOSS vs Austin Bashi
SUB R1 3:39 · UFC Fight Night: Taira vs. Park · Aug 02, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Austin Bashi 0 2 of 7 28% 48 of 67 1 of 1 100% 1 0 2:53
John Yannis 0 0 of 5 0% 2 of 9 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Austin Bashi 0 2 of 7 28% 48 of 67 1 of 1 100% 1 0 2:53
John Yannis 0 0 of 5 0% 2 of 9 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Austin Bashi 2 of 7 28% 2 of 7 0 of 0 0 of 0 2 of 6 0 of 0 0 of 1
John Yannis 0 of 5 0% 0 of 4 0 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 5 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Austin Bashi 2 of 7 28% 2 of 7 0 of 0 0 of 0 2 of 6 0 of 0 0 of 1
John Yannis 0 of 5 0% 0 of 4 0 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 5 0 of 0 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Austin Bashi vs. John Yannis
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Bashi (-550); Yannis (+400)

Round 1
On ultra-short notice, Michigan native Bashi (13-1, 0-1 UFC) finds himself staring across the Octagon from Yannis (9-3, 0-0 UFC), a striker by trade. This shifted stylistic clash to one more in line with the grappler-striker archetype will be overseen by referee Mark Smith, and the featherweights opt to bump fists.
The newcomer takes to the center of the cage, keeping his guard up to block a head kick from the massive betting favorite Bashi. Yannis whiffs with a big punch, and Bashi responds with a mighty hook that knocks Yannis back to the wall. Yannis ricochets off to retaliate, but Bashi is nowhere to be struck. Bashi rushes at his foe and completes a single-leg takedown, lifting Yannis in the air and slamming him to the mat. Yannis scrambles, but he gives his back up along the way. Bashi takes it, and he lets Yannis stand up so he can cling to him like a malevolent backpack that hits him in the face. Bashi softens his foe up while Yannis lowers himself back to the floor, and the underdog tries all he might to shake Bashi of him. Bashi stays on the back spamming heavy right hands, allowing Yannis to turn so he can gain control of a traditional back take.
Bashi secures a body triangle while beating on Yannis on either side of the head. Yannis breaks out of the body lock while under fire, and he crawls the fence to wall-walk with Bashi still behind him.
Bashi, still on Yannis’ back, grips hold of a rear-naked choke and torques his way back to put ample pressure on Yannis’ throat. The submission is tight as a drum and going nowhere, and before Yannis drops to the floor and goes out, he surrenders.
The crowd in the Apex loudly cheers the victory of the Michigan native, with a fair number of fans in the building for the biggest favorite of the evening cashing without likely absorbing a single significant strike. That is one way to bounce back from your first career loss, by running over the next person placed in front of you.

The Official Result
Austin Bashi def. John Yannis R1 3:39 via Submission (Rear-Naked Choke)
Comments (1)
BR
brian 1 month, 2 weeks ago

Little suloev attempt from Bashi