vs
+164 -170
UFC on ABC: Ortega vs. Rodriguez · Jul 16, 2022 · Bantamweight · Completed
Prev Fight UFC on ABC: Ortega vs. Rodriguez Next Fight
Age 33
Height 5' 6"
Reach 69"
Weight 135 lbs.
Stance Orthodox
Age 31
Height 5' 8"
Reach 71.0"
Weight 145 lbs.
Stance Orthodox
Career Averages - Ricky Simón
3.03 SLpM
42.0% Str. Acc.
3.9 SApM
61.0% Str. Def.
4.49 TD Avg
41.0% TD Acc.
76.0% TD Def.
0.3 Sub. Avg
Career Averages - Jack Shore
3.6 SLpM
58.0% Str. Acc.
2.31 SApM
56.0% Str. Def.
3.22 TD Avg
39.0% TD Acc.
74.0% TD Def.
0.6 Sub. Avg
Ricky Simón
Moneyline
FanDuel +164
KO/TKO
FanDuel +1100
Submission
BetMGM +1600
Decision
FanDuel +250
Jack Shore
Moneyline
DraftKings -170
KO/TKO
FanDuel +650
Submission
DraftKings +500
Decision
BetWay +163
Ricky Simón - Fight History
Draw vs Adrian Yañez
Draw R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Adesanya vs. Pyfer · Mar 28, 2026
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Ricky Simón 0 44 of 139 31% 52 of 149 2 of 5 40% 0 0 2:06
Adrian Yañez 1 71 of 169 42% 73 of 171 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:06
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Ricky Simón 0 12 of 55 21% 12 of 55 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Adrian Yañez 0 16 of 46 34% 16 of 46 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Ricky Simón 0 15 of 35 42% 23 of 45 2 of 3 66% 0 0 2:06
Adrian Yañez 0 15 of 29 51% 16 of 30 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Ricky Simón 0 17 of 49 34% 17 of 49 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Adrian Yañez 1 40 of 94 42% 41 of 95 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:06
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Ricky Simón 44 of 139 31% 33 of 121 7 of 13 4 of 5 38 of 132 2 of 2 4 of 5
Adrian Yañez 71 of 169 42% 63 of 159 6 of 8 2 of 2 67 of 156 0 of 0 4 of 13
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Ricky Simón 12 of 55 21% 9 of 48 1 of 4 2 of 3 12 of 55 0 of 0 0 of 0
Adrian Yañez 16 of 46 34% 15 of 45 1 of 1 0 of 0 16 of 46 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Ricky Simón 15 of 35 42% 13 of 31 1 of 3 1 of 1 9 of 28 2 of 2 4 of 5
Adrian Yañez 15 of 29 51% 13 of 26 2 of 3 0 of 0 15 of 29 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Ricky Simón 17 of 49 34% 11 of 42 5 of 6 1 of 1 17 of 49 0 of 0 0 of 0
Adrian Yañez 40 of 94 42% 35 of 88 3 of 4 2 of 2 36 of 81 0 of 0 4 of 13
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Mar 22, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Ricky Simón

Angelo picks Ricky Simon because he believes Simon's relentless pressure and wrestling will negate Yanez's technical striking. He notes that Simon's takedown defense was exposed against Honey Balcelos, but Balcelos is a high-level wrestler, while Yanez has no offensive takedowns. Angelo also mentions the hometown advantage and the possibility of a close decision, but expects Simon's wrestling to be effective enough to secure the win.

"I think Ricky's pressure is going to negate the technical striking. I think he's going to open up the takedowns."
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Mar 23, 2026 (5 days before fight)
Ricky Simón

Big Brady picks Ricky Simón to win by decision, but he is hesitant. He notes that Simón has been on a three-fight losing streak and his cardio and wrestling have declined. However, he believes Simón's wrestling upside is key, as Adrian Yañez has not faced a wrestler in the UFC. Simón is the hometown fighter, and Brady thinks he can mix in takedowns, cage push, and win minutes in the clinch to secure a decision.

Simón by decision
"I think Ricky Simón can cage push here, win minutes in the clinch. I think he can mix in the takedowns, and I think he wins this fight by decision."
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Mar 25, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Adrian Yañez

Cody picks Yanez, believing his striking and takedown defense will be enough to win rounds. He's concerned about Simon's hometown advantage but thinks Yanez lands the more significant shots.

"My official pick is actually Adrian Yanez."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Hesitant picked Mar 27, 2026 (1 day before fight)
Adrian Yañez

Connor picks Yañez, thinking that Simón doesn't want to win just by holding someone down and will engage in the pocket, where Yañez can catch him. He notes that Simón is square and takes his eyes off the target, and Yañez has power.

"I'm going to take Yanya's."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Mar 24, 2026 (4 days before fight)
Adrian Yañez

Daniel believes Yanez's boxing and takedown defense will be too much for Simon, who he thinks is past his best. He cites sources saying Yanez is sharp again and likes the underdog value.

"I'm picking Adrian Yanez as an underdog pick here at UFC Seattle."
DI
Diary of a Pro Gambler Expert Confident picked Mar 28, 2026 (fight day)
Ricky Simón

The host picks Simón despite his poor fight IQ and tendency to strike instead of wrestle. He argues that Simón's wrestling is his path to victory, and Yanez's takedown defense is inflated because he has only faced strikers. Footage from Yanez's fight against Daniel Marcos shows he can be taken down and held down easily. However, the host warns that Simón may not commit to grappling, making this a risky bet.

Pass on fight spread and over/under; odds not favorable.
"If you came to me and you said, 'Hey Chris, I've got a crystal ball... I can promise you Ricky Simon will grapple his dick off for 15 minutes nonstop.' I'd be like, 'Great. Let's bet 100 units on Simon.'"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Mar 24, 2026 (4 days before fight)
Adrian Yañez

The host sees Yañez as the better striker with good takedown defense and getups, allowing him to keep the fight standing. He believes Yañez's striking edge and reach advantage will allow him to piece up Simón, and he even suggests Yañez might score a knockout. He notes Simón's reliance on power and wrestling, but thinks Yañez can avoid the big shots and find a finish.

knockout
"I still think that Yanz will showcase his striking in edge here, which is why I like him as a plus uh 125 dog. I think so much so that he might even be able to uncor a big knockout …"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Mar 25, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Ricky Simón

Paul leans Simon, citing his wrestling and hometown crowd. He thinks Simon's control time could sway judges, especially with the Seattle crowd.

"I think Simon wins this fight."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Mar 27, 2026 (1 day before fight)
Ricky Simón

The MMA Guru picks Ricky Simón, noting his improved demeanor and grappling ability. He believes Simón is well-rounded enough to grapple his way to a decision victory. He criticizes Adrian Yañez's recent performances, pointing out losses to Rob Font and Daniel Marcos, and suggests Yañez struggles against capable opponents. He expects Simón to mix in grappling and land good shots on the feet.

"I'm going to go with Ricky Simone. He looks mean for this one."
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Hesitant picked Mar 27, 2026 (1 day before fight)
Ricky Simón

Zane picks Simón for the wrestling, noting that Simón has shown more interest in keeping people down recently. He is hesitant because Yañez has good defensive wrestling and is a higher output fighter, but he thinks Simón's wrestling will be the difference in a close fight.

"I think I'm going to take Ricky Simone here for the wrestling."
LOSS vs Raoni Barcelos
Decision R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Bonfim vs. Brown · Nov 08, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Ricky Simón 0 67 of 181 37% 77 of 191 0 of 6 0% 0 1 1:25
Raoni Barcelos 0 82 of 187 43% 86 of 194 1 of 8 12% 0 0 0:09
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Ricky Simón 0 24 of 52 46% 34 of 62 0 of 2 0% 0 1 0:45
Raoni Barcelos 0 16 of 33 48% 19 of 39 1 of 3 33% 0 0 0:09
2 Ricky Simón 0 16 of 47 34% 16 of 47 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:40
Raoni Barcelos 0 32 of 71 45% 33 of 72 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:00
3 Ricky Simón 0 27 of 82 32% 27 of 82 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Raoni Barcelos 0 34 of 83 40% 34 of 83 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Ricky Simón 67 of 181 37% 57 of 165 9 of 15 1 of 1 58 of 170 3 of 4 6 of 7
Raoni Barcelos 82 of 187 43% 53 of 150 19 of 24 10 of 13 80 of 184 2 of 3 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Ricky Simón 24 of 52 46% 20 of 46 4 of 6 0 of 0 16 of 42 2 of 3 6 of 7
Raoni Barcelos 16 of 33 48% 9 of 26 3 of 3 4 of 4 15 of 31 1 of 2 0 of 0
2 Ricky Simón 16 of 47 34% 13 of 44 2 of 2 1 of 1 15 of 46 1 of 1 0 of 0
Raoni Barcelos 32 of 71 45% 21 of 57 8 of 9 3 of 5 32 of 71 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Ricky Simón 27 of 82 32% 24 of 75 3 of 7 0 of 0 27 of 82 0 of 0 0 of 0
Raoni Barcelos 34 of 83 40% 23 of 67 8 of 12 3 of 4 33 of 82 1 of 1 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Raoni Barcelos vs. Ricky Simon
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Simon (-160); Barcelos (+130)

Round 1
Sticking to the bantamweight division but flipping over to men, a pair of relative elder statesmen in the promotion come to blows with hopes of pushing their unlikely win streaks one step forward. Some six and a half years after getting wasted by Urijah Faber and totally written off, Simon (22-6, 10-5 UFC) has gone on a pair of respectable runs since then. The same can be said for 38-year-old Barcelos (20-5, 9-4 UFC), who once had a rough patch where he dropped four of five. Someone’s fortuitous stretch is about to crash into the proverbial wall, and referee Keith Peterson will follow the athletes every step of the nonsense-free way. Fists are bumped before they are traded.
Simon sprints to the center of the cage and looses a head kick that goes wide. He pushes out a front kick, and Barcelos whizzes past him with a fireball of a right hand. Barcelos jabs the body and allows Simon to leap at him, staying out of range so there is no strike to come from it. Simon sticks the Brazilian and moves, and Barcelos strides forward and is belted with an uppercut. Barcelos takes it well, and the two consider grappling but bail on it to brawl it out. Both men are putting everything into their swings, and Barcelos clips Simon and then shoots in for a double. Simon scrambles wildly and flips Barcelos over, where he starts smacking Barcelos around with high-arcing hammerfists.
Simon lashes out with elbows while Barcelos keeps him contained with butterfly hooks, and both men trade while in a horizontal position until Barcelos kicks off to stand up. Simon reaches him at the end of a right hand, and Barcelos wings on the overhand right counter. Simon dings the Brazilian with a one-two, and his jab is money. Barcelos smashes Simon in the face with a ruthless right hand, and somehow Simon not only sticks with it but returns fire with an uppercut that nearly lifts his man off the ground. Both men are no worse for wear from the mighty exchange, and Simon tries to sneak in a head kick that is blocked in time. Barcelos opens up upstairs with a pair of punches, and Simon backs him off with jabs. Barcelos tries to take the fight down, and he abandons it to slash out with an elbow up top. A final Simon takedown is blocked to end what was a close, tense round.

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

Round 2
Barcelos starts off the round with a double jab and a right hand up top. Simon swings back with a huge overhand right, and Barcelos ducks it and plants a right on the jaw. Barcelos times a thumping calf kick and overswings on a right hand while chasing the man, and Simon knees him in the jaw. Barcelos digs a left to the body, and Simon’s quick kick and right hand greet him in rapid succession. Barcelos scrapes the side of his uppercut off the head, and he drops down for a low single and hurls Simon to a knee. Simon scrambles out of reach and gets back to his feet, only for Barcelos to ring his bell with a crisp uppercut and a power right hand. Barcelos crashes into his foe with a leaping uppercut, and Simon tries to time a double when he lands. Simon pushes Barcelos up against the wire, but the sprawl of Barcelos prevents the Washington native from going anywhere. Barcelos escapes with little more than a knee to the belly, and he allows Simon to circle all the way around him so he can find his angle in. Simon lands first with a right, but Barcelos connects last and the heavier of the two.
Barcelos goes to the body and then head, and he scoops Simon up and deposits him gingerly on the canvas. Simon jumps right back up, and Barcelos does not mind as he can trade hands with his foe. Simon scores an uppercut, and Barcelos reaches him with three punches over the guard. A naked leg kick from Simon is met with a two-punch salvo, and Barcelos rips a right to the body to punctuate the combo. Simon counters a low kick with a right hand, and Barcelos stands firm and jacks him in the jaw with a right hand and an uppercut. Simon dances and keeps Barcelos guessing with awkward movement, entries and exits that rely on speed and potshots with evasive movement. They both shoot at the same time and clash heads like bulls, and proceed to trade punches and kicks to end what is another tight round.

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

Round 3
The final round opens with the Brazilian pushing the pace. He watches Simon attack and sways to dodge everything but an uppercut, and he storms back to nail Simon with a one-two that forces a takedown shot. Barcelos sits down on a right hand, Simon replies, and Barcelos comes over the top. Barcelos leaps in and lands a right after Simon’s strike connects on him, and Simon’s jab has bloodied the bridge of the Brazilian’s beak. Barcelos rubs his nose and busts Simon in the chops with a stiff right hand. Simon’s one-two also scores, but Barcelos still has the power edge and is putting more strikes together.
Both men go back and forth with their offensive offerings, with Simon just missing an uppercut when Barcelos ducked down. Barcelos jams a knee to the body, and he plants his shin on the side of Simon’s lead leg. Barcelos drops down for a snatch single, and he releases it and busts open Simon’s nose with power punches. Barcelos follows a punch with a high kick, and then goes back to a one-two. Simon’s stabbing jab is effective, as is his overhand right and uppercut to follow, but Barcelos stuns him when landing flush. Barcelos’ rights have Simon’s attention, and Simon tries to walk him down to attack the liver but finds himself in a slugfest. Barcelos goes after a double and bails on it to come back with an elbow, and knees fly from both men effectively after. Simon steps in with a sharp elbow, and both fighters unload their gas tanks and swing for the bleachers. Simon takes a kick in the face and screams for Barcelos to keep engaging, and they bang it out to the bell.

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

The Official Result
Raoni Barcelos def. Ricky Simon via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Nov 2, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Ricky Simón

Angelo picks Ricky Simon because of his non-stop wrestling pace and power in his hands. He believes even if Raoni Barcelos has early takedown defense, Simon's relentless pressure will eventually get takedowns. He notes that Barcelos is aging and that wrestlers are not spectacular off their backs.

"I'm still picking Ricky here. I feel pretty good about it. Ricky's wrestling is non-stop, so even if Haney has early takedown defense, I don't think it's going to remain throughout 15 full minutes."
BI
Big Brady Expert Lean picked Nov 7, 2025 (1 day before fight)
Raoni Barcelos

Big Brady struggles with this pick, noting Simón has looked awful in recent fights and may be slowing down due to accumulated damage. He thinks Barcelos has better striking and both have questionable chins. He leans with the 38-year-old Barcelos to win by decision, but admits it's a sketchy pick.

decision
"I'm going to lean with the 38-year-old and Barcelos to win this fight by decision, but this is one that's definitely sketching me out a little bit."
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Nov 5, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Raoni Barcelos

Cody picks Barcelos, citing his takedown defense, BJJ black belt, and superior boxing volume. He thinks Simón's wrestling will be neutralized and Barcelos will outwork him over three rounds.

"Overall after 15 minutes, Ronnie Barcelos should have the bigger and greater body of work. So he should get the nod in my opinion and I'm gonna pick him."
LU
Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Nov 2, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Ricky Simón

Lucrative James is confident in Ricky Simón, going against the market. He believes Simón's wrestling and cardio advantage will be key, as Barcelos ages and has shown a deteriorating chin and gas tank. He expects Simón to mix takedowns and land big overhands, possibly finishing Barcelos. He also notes Barcelos has been hurt in recent fights.

"I'm going to pick Ricky Simone. I think Ricky Simone can hurt and actually finish Barcelos on the feet with big overhands."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Nov 6, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Ricky Simón

The host acknowledges Barcelos is the better striker on paper, but believes Simón's wrestling, athleticism, speed, and power will be decisive. He expects Simón to find a big shot and knock Barcelos out.

Knockout
"I believe Barcelos is the better striker on paper, but Simone is the better wrestler and closer to his prime. And I think that should allow him to utilize his athleticism advantage, speed advantage, and power edge."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Nov 5, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Raoni Barcelos

Paul sees it as a 50/50 fight but likes Barcelos at plus money. He thinks if Simón can't get takedowns, Barcelos's striking and experience will carry him.

"Rowdy at plus 140, plus 150 seems like a decent little shot."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Nov 6, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Ricky Simón

The Guru picks Ricky Simón to win by first-round TKO. He believes Simón's well-rounded game and explosiveness will overwhelm the aging Barcelos, who relies on exploiting specific weaknesses. He notes Simón has no glaring holes in his grappling or pressure defense, unlike Barcelos's previous opponents.

round 1 TKO
"I'm going to go Ricky Simone getting this one done by a TKO finish in the first round."
Decision R3 5:00 · UFC on ESPN: Usman vs. Buckley · Jun 14, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Ricky Simón 0 34 of 74 45% 50 of 94 3 of 10 30% 0 0 9:13
Cameron Smotherman 0 29 of 99 29% 33 of 104 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Ricky Simón 0 7 of 13 53% 19 of 27 1 of 2 50% 0 0 4:27
Cameron Smotherman 0 1 of 6 16% 3 of 8 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Ricky Simón 0 16 of 31 51% 20 of 37 1 of 1 100% 0 0 2:56
Cameron Smotherman 0 11 of 37 29% 12 of 38 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Ricky Simón 0 11 of 30 36% 11 of 30 1 of 7 14% 0 0 1:50
Cameron Smotherman 0 17 of 56 30% 18 of 58 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Ricky Simón 34 of 74 45% 22 of 62 4 of 4 8 of 8 28 of 62 4 of 6 2 of 6
Cameron Smotherman 29 of 99 29% 23 of 89 5 of 9 1 of 1 25 of 94 4 of 5 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Ricky Simón 7 of 13 53% 5 of 11 0 of 0 2 of 2 4 of 7 3 of 3 0 of 3
Cameron Smotherman 1 of 6 16% 0 of 5 0 of 0 1 of 1 1 of 6 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Ricky Simón 16 of 31 51% 8 of 23 3 of 3 5 of 5 14 of 28 0 of 0 2 of 3
Cameron Smotherman 11 of 37 29% 9 of 35 2 of 2 0 of 0 10 of 36 1 of 1 0 of 0
3 Ricky Simón 11 of 30 36% 9 of 28 1 of 1 1 of 1 10 of 27 1 of 3 0 of 0
Cameron Smotherman 17 of 56 30% 14 of 49 3 of 7 0 of 0 14 of 52 3 of 4 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Ricky Simon vs. Cameron Smotherman
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Simon (-440), Smotherman (+340)

Round 1
On short notice, Simon (21-6, 9-5 UFC) now stands across the cage from high-flying Fury FC product Smotherman (12-5, 1-1 UFC). Simon was initially expected to battle Charles Jourdain, but it is what it is now. The bantamweights will be joined in the cage by referee Blake Grice, who claps them in as they choose to tap their gloves together. Smotherman jabs and low kicks, and Simon does the same. Simon turns his hips into one thudding kick, and he suddenly goes high with a kick that Smotherman barely blocks in time. Both swipe at the other with hooks, and Simon drops levels, stutter-steps and shoots for a single-leg takedown. Simon lifts Smotherman all the way in the air and chucks him to the mat, where Smotherman is quick to sit up against the wire. Simon hooks one leg in and starts peppering Smotherman with free left hands, and Smotherman is stuck unable to get back up. When Smotherman attempts to stand, Simon wrenches him back down again. Simon isolates Smotherman’s left arm in pursuit of a kimura, and Smotherman gives up position to defend against it. Simon takes advantage of this to step into full mount, and he allows Smotherman to turn over so he can start fishing for a rear-naked choke. Simon cannot get his hooks in, so Smotherman is able to fight back to his feet with about 30 seconds left in the round. Simon leans on him against the wire, kneeing him in the side of the head while trying to drag Smotherman back down. Simon rides out the round squeezing.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Simon
Devin Tejada scores the round: 10-9 Simon
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Simon

Round 2
Smotherman takes the center of the cage and marches forward to start off the second round, looking for a hook that he cannot find yet. Simon loops a right hand around the guard and plunks the front leg with a kick, and he dodges the counter to weave a right hand up top. Simon kicks the front leg and keeps his guard up to block the right hand aimed down the pipe, and he walks into a pair of punches but does not budge. Instead, Simon leaps in the air with a knee, and he lands and grabs hold of a double. Simon tackles Smotherman to his back, placing himself in half guard while exerting heavy shoulder pressure. Simon flattens his man out when Smotherman tries to buck and twist to get out, and he slashes down with a pair of elbows. Simon leans back a slight amount to wrap his arm around Smotherman’s neck, either for a guillotine setup or to push Smotherman down. Simon spins around to grab his foe from behind, and Smotherman stands back up in the process. Simon leans on Smotherman from the back while jamming Smotherman against the wall, and Smotherman starts chattering towards the grapple-heavy adversary. Simon ignores it and continues to embrace the grind, transitioning a single to a double and back to a single. Smotherman looks for a standing ninja choke, but Simon wriggles his neck out without concern. “The Baby-Faced Killer” drives a knee down the middle, and when it succeeds, he goes for another. Simon shrugs them off and loops a right hand up top and a left to the liver. Simon narrowly avoids a looping right hand as he scores a low kick, and Smotherman’s final strike of the round is a front kick to the chest. Grice has to get between the two when the horn sounds, ushering them back to their corners. Smotherman does not appear to be a happy man right now.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Simon
Devin Tejada scores the round: 10-9 Simon
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Simon

Round 3
Smotherman is fired up between rounds, and he starts throwing hands and grins when Simon obliges him. Simon takes a jab on the forehead and showboats while dodging the two follow-ups, looking away from the swinging Texan. Simon clips Smotherman with a right hand on the temple, and he grabs hold of Smotherman in a body lock and throws him to his knees. Smotherman powers back up to his feet, but Simon is a dog with a bone as he tries to go from a double to a single to a body lock. Simon pursues a double again when the other efforts fail, and Smotherman’s defense holds up even as he is stuck against the wire. Smotherman pushes off a knee, forcing Simon to wing two punches and shoot in for a double that finally succeeds. Smotherman is placed on his seat, and Simon holds him down and keeps his arms wrapped around a single to keep him in place. Smotherman still gets back to his feet, and he shakes Simon up with an elbow. Smotherman walks him down, firing a left to the body and a right to the head. When Simon counters, Smotherman hits him with a step-in knee. Simon eats a left hook to fire one back, and his right hand gets Smotherman’s attention and tells him it will not be as easy as walking through him with heavy fists. Simon shoots hard for a single, and Smotherman responds with a ninja choke and backs himself to the fencing. Simon is completely unfazed by the submission attempt, not budging and instead pressing on Smotherman until Smotherman bails on it. Smotherman breaks out of the takedown attempt and clinch to drive a pair of lefts to the liver and temple. Simon jabs to beat him to the punch a few times, and Smotherman is winding up with everything he has with his right hand. Simon is able to intercept him when he launches those missiles, slipping the most dangerous of the punches and hitting Smotherman back. Smotherman jabs to the body with the ball of his foot, winging a left to the same spot and a right up top. Simon shrugs at him, but he got stung with the power strikes. Smotherman unloads with pure power, tagging Simon a few times and eating some responsive blows until time expires.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Simon (30-27 Simon)
Devin Tejada scores the round: 10-9 Smotherman (29-28 Simon)
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Smotherman (29-28 Simon)

The Official Result
Ricky Simon def. Cameron Smotherman via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jun 13, 2025 (1 day before fight)
Ricky Simón

The Guru picks Ricky Simón, noting he is 'barely a favorite' and sees value. He highlights Simón's momentum from a KO win over Javid Basharat and his power in the pocket. He criticizes Smotherman's quick turnaround after a loss where he took damage, and trusts Simón's fundamentals and grappling options.

"I actually think this is really good odds for Ricky Simone. He's barely a favorite here. I know he's stepping up and you know Cameron Smotherman lost his last fight and he's stepping in and this is a bit of …"
CANCEL vs Charles Jourdain
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jun 8, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Ricky Simón

Angelo picks Ricky Simón because of his relentless wrestling and cardio. He believes Charles does not have good enough takedown defense to stop multiple shots. He notes that Ricky's losses are to top competition and he is consistent.

"This should be Ricky all day long."
KO R1 3:58 · UFC Fight Night: Cejudo vs. Song · Feb 22, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Ricky Simón 1 11 of 21 52% 18 of 29 1 of 3 33% 0 0 1:16
Javid Basharat 0 20 of 36 55% 21 of 38 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:01
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Ricky Simón 1 11 of 21 52% 18 of 29 1 of 3 33% 0 0 1:16
Javid Basharat 0 20 of 36 55% 21 of 38 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:01
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Ricky Simón 11 of 21 52% 9 of 19 1 of 1 1 of 1 9 of 18 1 of 2 1 of 1
Javid Basharat 20 of 36 55% 12 of 27 7 of 7 1 of 2 20 of 36 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Ricky Simón 11 of 21 52% 9 of 19 1 of 1 1 of 1 9 of 18 1 of 2 1 of 1
Javid Basharat 20 of 36 55% 12 of 27 7 of 7 1 of 2 20 of 36 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Hesitant picked Feb 16, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Javid Basharat

Angelo picks Javid Basharat but is hesitant because of Javid's frustratingly passive performance in his last fight. He acknowledges Ricky Simón's relentless wrestling pressure and cardio could sway judges if Javid is too patient. He trusts Javid's takedown defense and superior striking, but admits it's hard to be confident given Javid's tendency to stare.

"Javid is going to be the pick... I'm going to chill though because if I had to trust one of these two to stick to something, it actually would be Ricky."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Feb 17, 2025 (5 days before fight)
Javid Basharat

Big Brady picks Javid Basharat despite not loving the -300 price tag. He notes that Ricky Simón looks washed at only 32, with poor recent performances against Vinicius Oliveira, Mario Bautista, and Song Yadong. He believes Simón needs to wrestle for 15 minutes but doubts he can take down or hold down Basharat. He predicts Basharat wins by decision.

by decision
"I got to pick bosra and I got to pick him to win by decision"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Feb 20, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Javid Basharat

The host notes Simón is on a three-fight losing streak and faces a tough opponent in Basharat, who has stellar takedown defense and superior striking. He expects Basharat to pick Simón apart from distance and win on the scorecards.

"look for bashat to utilize has Stellar takedown defense and in a superior striking game picking in part Ricky Simone from distance and winning this fight on the scorecards"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Feb 21, 2025 (1 day before fight)
Javid Basharat

The Guru feels Ricky Simón has lost his mojo, citing recent losses where he was walked down. He believes Basharat is at a level similar to Victor Henry and will outpoint Simón in a striking fight. He doesn't see Simón overpowering Basharat in grappling or striking, predicting a decision win for Basharat.

"I'm gonna have to go with Javid basharat I can only imagine he's taking his foot off the pedal when it comes to training"
DEC R3 5:00 · UFC 303: Pereira vs. Prochazka 2 · Jun 29, 2024
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Ricky Simon vs. Vinicius Oliveira
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Simon (-218), Oliveira (+180)

Round 1
At long last, UFC 303 is upon us, but not how many would have hoped. In the weeks prior to the event, the final three bouts on the lineup transformed dramatically. Before we get to those, there will be 10 other matchups pleasing fight fans throughout the billing, with some fascinating stylistic clashes and others that promise immediate violence. We start off in the bantamweight division, where perennial contender Simon (20-5, 8-4 UFC) looks to get back in the win column after a rare skid. He faces high-flying Brazilian Oliveira (20-3, 1-0 UFC), who has seen 19 of his 23 pro outings end by knockout, win or lose. Referee Mark Smith is on call for the first fight of the night, geared up for what could be something wild. There is no fist bump to get things going, perhaps in part to the fiery weigh-ins the night before. The two feint and fake at one another in the opening 20 seconds, and Oliveira lunges for a few strikes but misses the mark. Oliveira prods out a front kick to the midsection and skirts away, his hands low as he aims a low calf kick. Simon reaches him with two punches up top, and Oliveira slips away from the rest. The Brazilian misses the mark with a jumping front kick, but his leg kick that follows does connect. Simon rushes him to get off a few punches before evading the counter. Oliveira uses his front kick as a jab, and he follows one with a rifling one-two down the middle. Oliveira switches stances regularly, keeping Simon guessing and flicking out a sharp left and a heavy right. Simon keeps his guard up to defend the worst of the blows, and he slams a low kick on the rear shin before crashing the pocket to sling “Lok Dog” to the canvas. Oliveira jumps right back up and stabs out a right hand that gets Simon’s attention, and Simon tags him with a counter that makes Oliveira drop his hands and march forward like a Terminator. Oliveira lets Simon have it with a number of unanswered leg kicks, and he whiffs on a head kick. Simon gets off a right hand, and Oliveira jabs him back. Oliveira walks through jabs, taking one on the nose and shrugging his shoulders before loosing a head kick that pounds into the guard. Oliveira gets off another head kick that nails the guard, and Simon dips down and lands a body shot that skips off the cup. Oliveira signals to Smith that he is fine, and he gets back to a stalking mode where his hands are low and he is swinging hard. Simon rushes at him to tie him up, but Oliveira wants nothing to do with it. Simon times a right hand as Oliveira ducks, and Oliveira shakes it off and tosses out two kicks. Simon snaps the head back as a gob of saliva launches from the mouth of “Lok Dog,” and they trade hands until the horn sounds.
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Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Oliveira
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Oliveira
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Oliveira

Round 2
Oliveira marches out of his corner, shouting something at Simon to get started. Oliveira’s hands low, he engages in a brief slugfest, and a left hand from Simon smashes into his ear and breaks open the cauliflower, resulting in a trickle of blood streaming down his neck. Oliveira laughs off anything Simon throws at him and lobs back hooks, and the two end up in the clinch until “Lok Dog” wants to push off and swing hands. Simon shoots through the hips with a solid double-leg takedown entry, and he lands on top comfortably. Oliveira keeps moving, and he scrambles back to his feet without issue. Simon ducks a punch and lifts Oliveira off the ground to slam him down to a knee, and when Oliveira tries to recover, Simon looks to take his back standing. Simon lets loose with a sharp elbow from a close proximity, and Oliveira pushes off and takes a deep breath. The punches from the Brazilian are labored less than two minutes into the second round, although his leg kicks do keep landing. Oliveira is frustrated about a warning to close his fingers, and he snaps out a jab that draws a frown from the Washington native. Simon looks for his own jab, all while trying to meander around the unorthodox looping punches from “Lok Dog.” Oliveira goes all power, and Simon blocks the strikes and drives him back with a few straight punches and a body shot. Simon attempts a takedown, and Oliveira stonewalls him and pursues a spinning wheel kick that Simon evades. Oliveira chains several strikes together including a few leg kicks, and he stumbles and returns to his feet to keep attacking. A few punches from Oliveira get through to shake up Simon, who escapes out the side and whips a head kick at the Brazilian’s melon. Oliveira takes it without issue and swings back with bad intentions, and he defends a takedown shot and uses rangy strikes to get to Simon. As Oliveira lazily tosses out calf kicks, Simon checks a few, and Oliveira staggers back, compromised from the defense. Simon rushes at him, letting his hands go. The two trade leather until the bell rings, and Simon barks at his opponent. Oliveira does not know what to do when hearing this, and he punches Simon in the face well after the round ended. Smith drags him to the corner while shouting at him, and cooler heads prevail to get to the third round.

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

Round 3
Physicians come in to assess the damage of Oliveira’s leg, and he is cleared to continue. Oliveira rushes out of his corner once more, but this time, Simon meets him in the middle to trade with him. Simon ducks the punch and lets go with a kick, and he engages in a back-and-forth session of strikes with him coming out slightly better. Simon pushes Oliveira back, and he checks a kick as Oliveira shakes his head uncomfortably. Simon leads off with punches, and Oliveira pushes off and a finger jabs into Simon’s eye. Oliveira shakes his finger as if to say it was from a punch, and Smith does not call anything. Simon fails on one takedown attempt, and his second is much deeper but he is spun around on the fence. Oliveira breaks free and jabs out with a front kick, circling to the left and switching stances regularly. Oliveira sticks out several jabs in an effort to launch a big right hand to follow, and he jabs the body and starts showboating and raising his hands to signal for Simon to fight him. Oliveira blocks a head kick and gives him one back, and he motions to Simon that his was much more effective. Oliveira walks Simon down, backing off only to block the offense his way, and he loops a left hand over the top. When Oliveira lets go with two punches, Simon shoots in for a double, and “Lok Dog” shuts it down and strings a number of punches and a kick together. Simon cannot reach his man, and Oliveira tags him back and raises his arms in the air to celebrate. Oliveira lands a few shots and looks over to his corner in a Max Holloway-esque display, and he decides to change things up and take Simon down. Oliveira backs off to stand back up, and he uses several unusual strikes including a kick behind his other leg to mess with Simon. Oliveira lands a head kick right at the bell, and the two stop fighting and hug it out to squash any beef that may have developed between them.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Oliveira (30-27 Oliveira)
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Oliveira (30-27 Oliveira)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Oliveira (30-27 Oliveira)

The Official Result
Vinicius Oliveira def. Ricky Simon via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
LOSS vs Mario Bautista
DEC R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Ankalaev vs. Walker 2 · Jan 13, 2024
LOSS vs Song Yadong
KO/TKO R5 1:10 · UFC on ESPN: Song vs. Simon · Apr 29, 2023
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Ricky Simon vs. Yadong Song
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Simon (-115), Song (-105)

Round 1
This bantamweight clash was supposed to be a co-main event one week ago before UFC Fight Night 223 lost its originally scheduled headliner. Now Song and Simon get two extra rounds with which to work. Herb Dean gets the final officiating assignment of the night. Simon tests the waters with a high kick and front kick. Song defends without issue. Simon lands a leg kick as both fighters remain patient. Song sidesteps a takedown and lands a leg kick. Song steps in with a knee and misses a right hand. Song blocks a body kick and then lands a hard one of his own. Song catches a kick and Simon spins out of it. A 1-2 connects for Simon and Song responds with a leg kick. Simon doubles up on his jab and follows with a right. They clinch against the fence and battle for position before Simon shakes his foe off. Simon lands a clubbing right. A leg kick connects for Simon and Song smiles. A left lands for Song and then Simon can’t finish a takedown. Song avoids a level change and fires off punches as Simon moves out of danger. Another three-punch combo lands for Simon and Song answers with a leg kick. Simon sticks a jab before the end of the round.

Sherdog Scores
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Simon
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Simon
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Simon

Round 2
Song opens with a front kick to the midsection. He follows up with a leg kick and Simon backs him up with a combination. Simon lands another jab. Another jab for Simon gets through. Song backs up Simon with a powerful combination and Simon briefly falls to the canvas after a clash of heads. He quickly transitions to a double leg takedown, giving him time to recover. Song is able to scramble up in a hurry. Simon sticks his jab and Song responds with a hard right to the body. Song with a push kick down the middle and Simon circles away. A clean left hook catches Simon. Another hard left lands for Song, who seems to have found his timing. Simon backs up his foe with multiple jabs. Song pressures and swings heavy leather. Simon continues to work his jab, but Song is undeterred. Song lands a leg kick. Simon evades some jabs but Song lands a left to the liver. Simon eats a right but gets a takedown in the waning moments of the round. He unloads with a flurry of hammerfists from above while Song attacks from his back in a frantic final exchange.

Sherdog Scores
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Song
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Song
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Song

Round 3
Song kicks the lead leg and avoids a hook. Simon shoots for a takedown but Song stuffs it and they’re back at distance. Song tries to land another body shot during an exchange but it lands below the belt, and time is called. Simon needs less than a minute to recover and the fight resumes. Simon just dodges a head kick but Song does connect with a leg kick. Song with two more leg kicks. Simon jabs and follows with a takedown but Song easily evades it. Song misses a pair of high kicks but he digs a left hook to the body moments later. A right lands clean for Song. A left from Song puts Simon on wobbly legs, and he circles away. A right to the body finds a home for Simon. Song pressures with punches and Simon circles away. A right uppercut lands to the body for Song. Song misses a high kick followed by a spinning back fist. The round concludes with Song being warned by Dean for leading with his head.

Sherdog Scores
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Song
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Song
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Song

Round 4
Simon fires off a combination but Song dodges it. Song lands a leg kick. Simon hits a low kick of his own. Simon attempts a flying knee but Song shoves him back. Song then puts together a nice combination, landing to the body and head. Song sticks a jab then sprawls on a takedown. Simon resets and tries again, but yet again Song denies it. Song moves in with a left hook to the head, and Simon circles away. Song backs up Simon with a combination and then digs a hook to the body. Simon fires off a right hand and then a pair of leg kicks. Another right for Song. Song again lands a combination, but Simon answers with a jab. Song has a low kick checked. Simon moves forward behind his jab and Song answers with a body kick. Simon thinks about a takedown but Song is wise to it. Song with a right hook. Simon moves in with a straight left. Another jab lands for Simon. Song doubles up on his jab and follows with a right hand. Son lands a leg kick and sits Simon down with a left hand right at the horn. Song dives into top position as the round ends.

Sherdog Scores
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Song
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Song
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Song

Round 5
Simon will likely need something big to get the win. Simon jabs forward. Song lands a left hook to the body. A nicely timed overhand right stops Simon in his tracks. Shortly thereafter,
Song drops Simon with a left hook during an exchange. Song pounces on his reeling foe, unloading with heavy punches. Simon tries to scramble out of danger, but the barrage continues and he falls back to the canvas, still absorbing damage.
Finally, Dean has seen enough and steps in to wave off the bout.

The Official Result
Yadong Song def. Ricky Simon via TKO (Punches) R5 1:10
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Apr 27, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Ricky Simón

Connor is impressed with Simón's rapid improvement, especially his boxing and wrestling integration since the Rob Font loss. He notes Simón's flexibility, ability to counter off the back foot, and scrambling prowess. However, he acknowledges Song's power and chin, and the risk of a knockout. He ultimately favors Simón due to Song's stagnation and Simón's adaptability.

Odds mentioned: Simón opened +104, dropped to -130, currently -115. Song opened -115, currently +122. Small cage noted as a factor helping Simón.
"I think Ricky Simone, there are a lot of opportunities on a one-note fighter like Song Yedong despite his physicality."
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Apr 27, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Ricky Simón

Zane agrees with Connor, citing Simón's improvement and Song's plateau. He highlights Simón's wrestling threat and pace, and Song's tendency to throw everything hard and get tracked down. He notes Song's potential to knock Simón out but leans on Simón's recent performances and adaptability.

Same odds commentary as Connor.
"We're both picking Ricky Simone."
Jack Shore - Fight History
LOSS vs Youssef Zalal
Submission (arm-triangle choke) R2 0:59 · UFC Fight Night: Moreno vs. Albazi · Nov 02, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Youssef Zalal 0 8 of 18 44% 10 of 21 2 of 4 50% 0 0 1:49
Jack Shore 1 13 of 27 48% 21 of 37 1 of 2 50% 1 0 2:07
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Youssef Zalal 0 7 of 15 46% 9 of 18 2 of 4 50% 0 0 1:49
Jack Shore 0 7 of 17 41% 13 of 23 1 of 2 50% 0 0 1:39
2 Youssef Zalal 0 1 of 3 33% 1 of 3 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Jack Shore 1 6 of 10 60% 8 of 14 0 of 0 --- 1 0 0:28
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Youssef Zalal 8 of 18 44% 8 of 16 0 of 0 0 of 2 7 of 17 0 of 0 1 of 1
Jack Shore 13 of 27 48% 9 of 22 1 of 2 3 of 3 11 of 23 0 of 2 2 of 2
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Youssef Zalal 7 of 15 46% 7 of 13 0 of 0 0 of 2 6 of 14 0 of 0 1 of 1
Jack Shore 7 of 17 41% 3 of 12 1 of 2 3 of 3 7 of 15 0 of 2 0 of 0
2 Youssef Zalal 1 of 3 33% 1 of 3 0 of 0 0 of 0 1 of 3 0 of 0 0 of 0
Jack Shore 6 of 10 60% 6 of 10 0 of 0 0 of 0 4 of 8 0 of 0 2 of 2
Play-by-Play
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Jack Shore vs. Youssef Zalal
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Zalal (-258), Shore (+210)

Round 1
What was once an extremely promising resume listed at 16-0 has transformed into 17-2 in the span of two years for Welshman Shore (17-2, 6-2 UFC). A pair of stoppages have turned him away from elite opposition, and he now draws a resurgent Zalal (15-5-1, 5-3 UFC) in what should be a fast-paced and exciting featherweight affair. The third man in the Octagon will be referee Luke Boutin, clocking the fighters in as they share a swift tap of gloves. Zalal immediately sticks out a jab, and Shore’s eye is red instantly. Zalal pushes out a front kick and dodges a jab, and he puts a few leg kicks on his opponent’s front wheel. Shore tries to check one and comes out swinging with an overhand right, and the Zalal jabs have further transformed his face to a redder color. Shore crashes the pocket and shoots for a single, and Zalal leans against the fence to defend it. Zalal watches the video screen to see the other side of his opponent, and Shore wrenches him down to his hands. Shore legally knees Zalal in the face while Zalal’s hands are down, and Zalal drops down to a single knee before blasting to his feet. Shore elevates his man down once more, and Zalal lowers himself to a knee to not get kneed in the face. Zalal works his way up and pushes Shore to the wall, and Shore explodes out of it and whips a kick at “The Moroccan Devil.” Zalal loads up on power strikes, opening him up to a three-punch counter. As the fighters trade hands, the fans again decide it is the right time to voice a political opinion about their current leader. Shore takes a few punches on the chin to push Zalal to the wall, and Zalal uses a kimura to turn Shore around. Zalal uses a body lock to lower Shore to the mat, and he hits the ground in half guard. Zalal wraps his arm around Shore’s head to keep him pinned down to the ground, but Shore still fights out of the choke and nearly gives up his back. Zalal positions himself to where he can get both hooks in, and he turns Shore around and starts hunting for a cranking submission. The neck crank does not get a tap, and the round ends.

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

Round 2
The two touch gloves, and Zalal opens up with a few jabs. Shore walks into a jab and a right hand, and Zalal’s counters are quicker and he is evasive enough to block the strikes from coming. As Shore ducks down, “The Moroccan Devil” fires off a devilishly powerful knee up the middle that knocks Shore to his seat. Zalal leaps on top into half guard, and he establishes an arm-triangle choke.
Zalal locks down the arm-triangle and does not even need to move to the side, instead pressing his full body weight down while in mount to complete it. Shore hangs on tight, but he has to tap out before getting rendered unconscious.
Boutin gets between them, and Zalal has just notched arguably the largest win in his career while breaking a tough stretch of decisions tonight. That marks three wins in 2024 for the Factory X fighter, all by submission.

The Official Result
Youssef Zalal def. Jack Shore R2 0:59 via Submission (Arm-Triangle Choke)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Oct 27, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Youssef Zalal

Angelo sees Youssef Zalal as the better wrestler, grappler, and more technical striker in this matchup. He notes Zalal's 2.0 version since returning to the UFC has been a buzzsaw, with improved wrestling and ground control. He mentions Zalal's low striking absorption rate (1.73 per minute) and high fight IQ. He also highlights Zalal's recent submission win over Jarno Errens. Angelo is confident Zalal will win and considers the -225 price affordable.

likely to do some work with the -225 line
"I love Yousef in this matchup I think he's going to be the better wrestler the better Grappler the more technical Striker and right now this minute he's an affordable minus 225 and I'm likely going to do some work …"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Oct 30, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Youssef Zalal

Big Brady picks Youssef Zalal to win by decision. He notes that Zalal has looked much more aggressive in his second UFC stint, finishing opponents, while Jack Shore is moving up to featherweight and will be undersized. Brady believes Zalal is the better striker and can compete in grappling, stuffing takedowns and possibly getting his own. He expects a close fight but thinks Zalal does enough over 15 minutes.

"I'm going zow I'm going as allowed to win this fight by decision"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Oct 30, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Youssef Zalal

Cody picks Youssef Zalal, citing his improved grappling and striking since his return to the UFC. He notes that Zalal is younger, faster, and more well-rounded than Shore, who he sees as undersized and struggling against physical opponents. He believes Zalal's movement and takedown ability will be too much for Shore, and expects a dominant performance.

"The Moroccan devil to keep the winning ways going and you're going to see this kid entering the rankings pretty soon."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Oct 30, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Youssef Zalal

Daniel Vreeland picks Youssef Zalal, citing his resurgence and improved skills since returning to the UFC. He believes Zalal's movement, footwork, and ability to mix in takedowns will be too much for Jack Shore, who is stuck between weight classes. Vreeland notes that Zalal has looked impressive against solid competition and is on a trajectory to face ranked opponents, while Shore is underwhelming and in the wrong division.

"give me youus of zow there"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Oct 31, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Jack Shore

Shore is dealing with recency bias as a big underdog, but his relentless wrestling style can still prove fruitful, especially since Zalal doesn't present the athletic and physical dangers that Shore's recent opponents have, allowing Shore to grind out a win and spoil Zalal's winning streak.

"I believe his Relentless wrestling style can still prove fruitful especially with him starting his career off with a 16-0 perfect record I don't think Zalal presents the athletic and physical dangers that Shore's opponents recently have presented him allowing …"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Oct 30, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Youssef Zalal

Paul agrees, noting that Zalal has looked impressive in his second UFC stint and has a well-rounded skill set. He points out that Shore struggles against physically stronger opponents and that Zalal's speed and technique will give him problems. He believes Zalal is the rightful favorite and should win comfortably.

"I like The Rebirth of zal... seems like he's ready to roll at this point."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Oct 31, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Youssef Zalal

The Guru picks Youssef Zalal over Jack Shore, citing that Shore is not a true featherweight and lacks physicality. He notes Zalal's momentum, improvements in grappling, and recent performances, including a win over Billy Quarantillo as an underdog. He believes Zalal's technical skills and confidence will be key, while Shore's move up in weight is a disadvantage.

"I'm going to have to go with Yousef salao and it pains me to have to go against Jack Shaw because I'm a big fan of Jack sha but a dude is not a featherweight"
TKO (doctor stoppage) R2 3:35 · UFC 301: Pantoja vs. Erceg · May 04, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Joanderson Brito 0 24 of 40 60% 31 of 47 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:48
Jack Shore 0 30 of 56 53% 57 of 86 1 of 1 100% 0 0 5:09
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Joanderson Brito 0 9 of 17 52% 13 of 21 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:48
Jack Shore 0 15 of 31 48% 29 of 45 0 of 0 --- 0 0 2:31
2 Joanderson Brito 0 15 of 23 65% 18 of 26 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Jack Shore 0 15 of 25 60% 28 of 41 1 of 1 100% 0 0 2:38
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Joanderson Brito 24 of 40 60% 16 of 32 7 of 7 1 of 1 10 of 25 14 of 15 0 of 0
Jack Shore 30 of 56 53% 4 of 29 4 of 4 22 of 23 20 of 46 10 of 10 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Joanderson Brito 9 of 17 52% 5 of 13 3 of 3 1 of 1 5 of 13 4 of 4 0 of 0
Jack Shore 15 of 31 48% 1 of 16 2 of 2 12 of 13 11 of 27 4 of 4 0 of 0
2 Joanderson Brito 15 of 23 65% 11 of 19 4 of 4 0 of 0 5 of 12 10 of 11 0 of 0
Jack Shore 15 of 25 60% 3 of 13 2 of 2 10 of 10 9 of 19 6 of 6 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Joanderson Brito vs. Jack Shore
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Brito (-148), Shore (+124)

Round 1
A place in the top 15 at the talent-rich featherweight division may loom for the victor between Welshman Shore (17-1, 6-1 UFC) and the ultraviolent Chute Boxe fighter Brito (16-3-1, 4-1 UFC). Finish rates of 76% for the former and 87% for the latter mean that the judges might be able to take off this preliminary headliner, while referee Joao Claudio Soares should be ready to step in at a moment’s notice. Before they try to lop the other’s head off at the neck, the heavy hitters bump fists. Brito is the initial aggressor, landing long strikes and finding his range early. Shore throws back to back him away, and he checks a low kick. Brito jabs his way in, and he has another calf kick checked hard. Brito swings for the bleachers, and Shore barely dodges it. The low kick that follows separates Shore from his balance, and he drops to a knee and pops back up. Shore gathers himself and ties the Brazilian up to slow him down, and Brito is quick to turn him around and pepper him with knees. Brito breaks off to throw big hands, and Shore slides away but cannot get away from a heavy leg kick. Brito shreds the front leg again and loads up on power punches, and Shore clinches him up as Brito smiles and sticks his tongue out. Brito pursues a single when turning his man around, kneeing the inner thighs when the takedown is not there. Shore chucks him to the side and looks for a takedown, but Brito hip-checks him and pushes him back to the wire. Shore attempts another level change and hangs on tight to slow Brito down, and they both lower themselves to the ground in a minute when locked up. Brito gets up first and pursues a double, and Shore elbows him in the side of the head to have him knock it off. Brito shoulder strikes his foe while up close and personal in the clinch, and he takes a knee to the belly as the grinding round ends.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Brito
Christian Stein scores the round: 10-9 Brito
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Brito

Round 2
Brito offers a glove touch that is accepted, and he gets right back to his forward momentum. Brito lands a couple leg kicks, completely no-sells getting kicked in the head by the Welshman, and clinches him up. Brito hammers knees on the legs of his opponent and slings him to the mat, and Shore climbs back up without issue. Brito remains stuck to him like he was made of Saran wrap, and Shore pushes him away with a knee up the middle. Brito scores a couple calf kicks, and he ducks when punches are aimed at his face. Shore tries to check a kick and the skin tears open from the impact, as the swelling and welting makes that left leg a horror show less than halfway through the match. Brito sells out for a takedown, and Shore defends it with elbows on the sides of the head. Brito lands a few more short knees as blood leaks out of Shore’s shin. Brito doggedly presses ahead, and he punches the shin several times to further rip open the cut. The apparent damage is so significant that Soares calls in the doctor, who examines the roughly inch-long wound that is at this point gaping. The physician wipes the blood away and feels the bone beneath it, and determines that the bout should not continue. Soares waves the fight off. It is unclear if there is a broken bone, or what the specific reason for the stoppage is, but it will go down as a technical knockout victory for the Brazilian—who hands Shore his first loss by knockout, however unusual.

The Official Result
Joanderson Brito def. Jack Shore R2 3:35 via TKO (Doctor Stoppage)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Hesitant picked Apr 28, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Joanderson Brito

Angelo picks Brito due to his danger on the feet, but feels the fight is closer to 50/50 than the 2-1 odds suggest. He notes Brito's 50% takedown defense and that Shore could win if he avoids power and gets takedowns. He does not bet on this fight.

"I am going to pick Jo Anderson breu because of the danger because of how scary he is on his feet but I'm not going to bet on Joe Anderson bre2"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Apr 30, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Joanderson Brito

Big Brady calls Brito a 'moment winner' with power and finishing ability. He notes Shore's vulnerability to being hurt and questions his takedown success at featherweight. He predicts Brito will land a big shot and knock Shore out in the first round.

"I'm taking Joanderson Brito to win this fight by first round knockout."
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked May 1, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Joanderson Brito

Cody picks Brito, citing his physical strength, power, and Brazilian crowd advantage. He notes Shore struggled with physical wrestlers at bantamweight and hasn't looked great at featherweight. Cody expects Brito to land bigger shots and potentially submit Shore.

Brito by submission
"I think burrito is the rightful favorite here... I wouldn't even be shocked by burrito sub..."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked May 1, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Joanderson Brito

Daniel Vreeland picks Brito, emphasizing his physicality, power, and multiple finishing threats. He notes that Shore's best wins are against lower-level competition and that Brito has fought tougher opponents. He believes Brito's grappling and striking are superior and that Shore may struggle at featherweight. He considers Brito underpriced and expects him to look like a -600 favorite after the fight.

"Britto is a guy I think is underpriced this week on a week when you got a lot of people that are overpriced"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked May 3, 2024 (1 day before fight)
Jack Shore

Shore is the underdog but will put the grind on Brito and win by decision. Brito is dangerous with knockout power and choking ability, but Shore won't make the same mistakes as Jonathan Pearce and will wear on Brito over 15 minutes.

"I ultimately think it's going to be the underdog Jack Shaw who's able to go out there and put the grind on Bru and come out Victorious by decision"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked May 1, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Joanderson Brito

Paul picks Brito, highlighting his power and physicality. He notes Shore's takedown defense and durability are questionable, and Brito's damaging blows will impress judges. Paul expects Brito to win the first two rounds and hold on.

"I got to agree as well with the favorite and go with Joanderson Brito."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Apr 30, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Joanderson Brito

The MMA Guru picks Joanderson Brito, citing his physicality, fast-twitch athleticism, and momentum. He doubts Jack Shore's strength at featherweight and believes Brito will revel in the pay-per-view moment. He also notes Brito's win over Lucas Alexander has aged well, and that Shore was finished by Ricky Simon.

"I'm gonna go with Jo Anderson bro man I'm gonna go Jo Anderson bro"
Submission (rear-naked choke) R2 4:27 · UFC 286: Edwards vs. Usman 3 · Mar 18, 2023
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Jack Shore 0 28 of 46 60% 45 of 64 1 of 1 100% 1 0 2:15
Makwan Amirkhani 0 10 of 24 41% 14 of 28 1 of 3 33% 0 0 3:31
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Jack Shore 0 5 of 14 35% 19 of 29 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:33
Makwan Amirkhani 0 6 of 8 75% 9 of 11 1 of 1 100% 0 0 3:14
2 Jack Shore 0 23 of 32 71% 26 of 35 1 of 1 100% 1 0 1:42
Makwan Amirkhani 0 4 of 16 25% 5 of 17 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:17
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Jack Shore 28 of 46 60% 23 of 40 4 of 4 1 of 2 22 of 39 2 of 2 4 of 5
Makwan Amirkhani 10 of 24 41% 6 of 19 4 of 5 0 of 0 6 of 20 4 of 4 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Jack Shore 5 of 14 35% 3 of 11 1 of 1 1 of 2 3 of 11 1 of 1 1 of 2
Makwan Amirkhani 6 of 8 75% 3 of 5 3 of 3 0 of 0 3 of 5 3 of 3 0 of 0
2 Jack Shore 23 of 32 71% 20 of 29 3 of 3 0 of 0 19 of 28 1 of 1 3 of 3
Makwan Amirkhani 4 of 16 25% 3 of 14 1 of 2 0 of 0 3 of 15 1 of 1 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Mar 15, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Jack Shore

Angelo is confident in Jack Shore, believing he will bounce back from his first loss. He thinks Shore has quality wins and evolving skills. He notes Amirkhani has been getting finished lately and his chin is questionable. He expects Shore to win via takedowns or striking.

"I trust Jack Shore to get it done."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Mar 14, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Jack Shore

Big Brady picks Shore confidently, noting Amirkhani has terrible cardio and is a one-round fighter. He believes Shore can survive the first round and then take over with superior striking and grappling. He predicts a third-round submission as Amirkhani gasses. He sees no path for Amirkhani unless he submits Shore in round one.

"I gotta absolutely pick Jack Shore I'm gonna pick Jack short to win by third round submission"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Mar 15, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Jack Shore

Cody picks Shore, noting Amirkhani is a one-round fighter with cardio issues. He thinks Shore can survive the first round, then take over with his high work rate and cardio. He mentions Amirkhani's submission threat in round one is real but low probability. He doesn't love minus 500 and prefers live betting or round three props.

Jack Shore round 3 (plus 500)
"Jack Shore's got the kind of cardio to replicate that same game plan but at this money line it's like I don't want to just hope he's made those corrections"
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Mar 16, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Jack Shore

Connor sees Jack Shore as a fundamentally sound, process-driven fighter who will find the most straightforward path to victory. He contrasts Shore's consistency and ability to adjust with Makwan Amirkhani's pattern of gassing after early aggression. Connor believes Shore's jab and pressure will neutralize Amirkhani's wild offense.

"Shore is a guy who will find the most straightforward path to beating you and stick to it."
JA
Jacob Lines Expert Confident picked Mar 15, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Jack Shore

Jacob is very confident in Jack Shore, calling him one of his most confident plays on the card. He thinks Amirkhani is broken and quits if his early takedowns fail. He notes Shore defended takedowns well against Ricky Simon and should handle Amirkhani's wrestling. He has bets on Shore for premium members.

bets on Shore for premium members
"this is one of the um this one more my more confident plays on this card."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Mar 13, 2023 (5 days before fight)
Jack Shore

Shore is a cardio machine with a grapple-heavy approach, coming off his first loss. Amirkhani is dangerous early with his anaconda choke but fades if he doesn't get the finish. Shore's defensive grappling and pace should allow him to survive the early onslaught and take over in the second and third rounds, likely finishing inside the distance.

Shore inside the distance, round 3 prop
"I'm fully expecting it to go into the second round and I think from there we're going to see that momentum swing"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Mar 15, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Jack Shore

Paul picks Shore, citing Amirkhani's cardio issues and Shore's durability. He notes Shore moving up to 145 after a bad cut could help. He thinks if Shore survives round one, he can tire Amirkhani and win by decision or late finish. He says minus 500 is unappealing and prefers a live entry.

"I'm gonna pick Jack Shore here... but at mine is 500 it's like I don't really think there's much meat on the bone pre-flop"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Mar 13, 2023 (5 days before fight)
Jack Shore

The MMA Guru picks Jack Shore over Makwan Amirkhani, despite the odds. He notes Amirkhani is dangerous in the first round with submissions but fades as the fight goes on. Shore has composure in grappling and a massive advantage on the feet with straight punches and a nasty knee. He predicts Shore will survive early grappling exchanges and win in later rounds, possibly by finish.

"I'm going with Jack Shore anywhere mukwan American is dangerous in the first round but Jack Shaw has got such a composer composure to him in the grappling"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Mar 16, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Jack Shore

Zane agrees with Connor, noting that Shore is a consistent, intelligent fighter who makes the right decisions. He points out that Amirkhani is creative but inconsistent, and Shore's fundamental soundness will prevail. Zane expects Shore to let Amirkhani take risks early, then punish him with jabs and counters.

"It's a pretty easy fight to pick for Jack Shore."
LOSS vs Ricky Simón
Submission R2 3:28 · UFC on ABC: Ortega vs. Rodriguez · Jul 16, 2022
WIN vs Timur Valiev
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29-28, 29–27) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Volkov vs. Aspinall · Mar 19, 2022
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Jack Shore 2 70 of 107 65% 87 of 128 3 of 7 42% 0 0 4:42
Timur Valiev 0 72 of 150 48% 75 of 155 2 of 3 66% 1 0 2:03
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Jack Shore 0 24 of 37 64% 26 of 39 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:29
Timur Valiev 0 30 of 58 51% 30 of 58 1 of 2 50% 0 0 0:22
2 Jack Shore 0 17 of 28 60% 23 of 35 1 of 3 33% 0 0 1:38
Timur Valiev 0 21 of 41 51% 24 of 46 1 of 1 100% 0 0 1:37
3 Jack Shore 2 29 of 42 69% 38 of 54 2 of 3 66% 0 0 2:35
Timur Valiev 0 21 of 51 41% 21 of 51 0 of 0 --- 1 0 0:04
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Jack Shore 70 of 107 65% 46 of 81 15 of 17 9 of 9 54 of 89 5 of 7 11 of 11
Timur Valiev 72 of 150 48% 23 of 83 26 of 40 23 of 27 67 of 144 5 of 6 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Jack Shore 24 of 37 64% 12 of 24 5 of 6 7 of 7 22 of 35 2 of 2 0 of 0
Timur Valiev 30 of 58 51% 8 of 27 12 of 18 10 of 13 28 of 56 2 of 2 0 of 0
2 Jack Shore 17 of 28 60% 9 of 19 7 of 8 1 of 1 15 of 25 2 of 3 0 of 0
Timur Valiev 21 of 41 51% 4 of 19 7 of 12 10 of 10 20 of 40 1 of 1 0 of 0
3 Jack Shore 29 of 42 69% 25 of 38 3 of 3 1 of 1 17 of 29 1 of 2 11 of 11
Timur Valiev 21 of 51 41% 11 of 37 7 of 10 3 of 4 19 of 48 2 of 3 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Lean picked Mar 12, 2022 (7 days before fight)
Jack Shore

Angelo picks Jack Shore with a slight edge, citing the home crowd advantage and the fact that Trevin Jones was able to take down Valiev, suggesting Shore can too. He notes that both fighters are grapplers who struggled in their last fights, but he trusts Shore's wrestling and thinks the London crowd will give him extra juice.

"i do think that jack fighting in london is going to give him a little extra juice and the fact that trevin jones was able to take down teamer tells me that jack sure should be able to do that …"
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Mar 14, 2022 (5 days before fight)
Timur Valiev

Big Brady picks Timur Valiev to win a close decision, acknowledging it's an unpopular pick. He favors Valiev on the feet due to his volume and mixing of tools, and believes Valiev's scrambling ability will allow him to get back up if taken down. Brady notes Jack Shore's best win was a split decision against Hunter Azure and that Shore has not faced a step-up in competition like Valiev. He also mentions Valiev's chin is a concern but doesn't think it will be an issue here.

"i am going to side with tamir valeev to win a very very close decision"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Mar 16, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Timur Valiev

Cody leans Valiev, citing his speed and striking advantage. He thinks Shore's wrestling might be neutralized and that Valiev's chin is a concern but he has good recovery. He is surprised by line movement and may wait for weigh-ins.

"i think valley of is the side here"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Mar 17, 2022 (2 days before fight)
Jack Shore

Daniel Levi picks Jack Shore, citing his undefeated record, strong grappling stats (5 takedowns per 15 minutes, 100% takedown defense), and the hometown advantage in the UK. He believes Valiev's best chance is a close decision, but judges will favor Shore in a close fight. Levi also notes that Valiev has been knocked down before and that Shore's submission threat is real. He expects a submission or dominant decision.

Shore by submission +700 mentioned as value
"give me a jack tank shore to edge out the decision"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Mar 16, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Jack Shore

Jack Shore is a 15-0 prospect with excellent wrestling and top control, able to drag fights to the ground and dominate. Valiev is more of a flashy striker but can grapple if needed, though he lacks crazy knockout power. Shore's takedowns should be effective, and he can grind out a decision. The line movement from +150 to +100 reflects public support, and I understand why. I like Shore to grind out Valiev over 15 minutes.

Shore via decision
"I like the Jack Shore side here I think he grinds out Valiev over 15 minutes and takes home a decision victory."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Mar 16, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Jack Shore

Paul picks Shore, emphasizing his undefeated streak, excellent wrestling, and pace. He thinks Valiev has cardio and chin issues, and that Shore's volume and pressure will win rounds. He believes the British judges will favor Shore in a close fight.

"i'm going with jack shore"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Mar 14, 2022 (5 days before fight)
Jack Shore

The Guru picks Jack Shore as an underdog, citing his grappling pressure and reach advantage. He believes Timur Valiev slows down in fights, as seen against Trevin Jones and Chris Gutierrez. He predicts Shore will grind on Valiev against the cage, take his back, and secure a rear-naked choke in round three. He notes Shore's youth and undefeated record.

third round rear-naked choke
"i'm going with jack shaw as well... i reckon he gets a rear naked choke in round three on timo valliv"
Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 30–27) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Brunson vs. Till · Sep 04, 2021
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Jack Shore 0 92 of 155 59% 104 of 168 2 of 8 25% 1 0 4:28
Liudvik Sholinian 0 19 of 92 20% 33 of 108 0 of 4 0% 0 0 1:26
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Jack Shore 0 16 of 28 57% 24 of 36 1 of 2 50% 1 0 2:53
Liudvik Sholinian 0 2 of 20 10% 14 of 34 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:06
2 Jack Shore 0 33 of 57 57% 36 of 61 1 of 3 33% 0 0 0:37
Liudvik Sholinian 0 7 of 33 21% 8 of 34 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:47
3 Jack Shore 0 43 of 70 61% 44 of 71 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:58
Liudvik Sholinian 0 10 of 39 25% 11 of 40 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:33
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Jack Shore 92 of 155 59% 59 of 116 11 of 14 22 of 25 80 of 138 8 of 12 4 of 5
Liudvik Sholinian 19 of 92 20% 13 of 85 6 of 7 0 of 0 16 of 89 2 of 2 1 of 1
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Jack Shore 16 of 28 57% 10 of 21 1 of 1 5 of 6 11 of 21 1 of 2 4 of 5
Liudvik Sholinian 2 of 20 10% 1 of 19 1 of 1 0 of 0 1 of 19 0 of 0 1 of 1
2 Jack Shore 33 of 57 57% 19 of 41 5 of 6 9 of 10 32 of 56 1 of 1 0 of 0
Liudvik Sholinian 7 of 33 21% 4 of 30 3 of 3 0 of 0 6 of 32 1 of 1 0 of 0
3 Jack Shore 43 of 70 61% 30 of 54 5 of 7 8 of 9 37 of 61 6 of 9 0 of 0
Liudvik Sholinian 10 of 39 25% 8 of 36 2 of 3 0 of 0 9 of 38 1 of 1 0 of 0
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Aug 31, 2021 (4 days before fight)
Jack Shore

Big Brady picks Jack Shore to win by third-round submission, very confident. He believes Shore is superior everywhere: better wrestling, better grappling (BJJ black belt), and better striking. Sholinian is sloppy on takedowns, hittable, and low volume. Coming in on short notice makes it even harder for Sholinian. Brady expects Shore to put on a pace and finish in the third round.

Shore by submission in round 3
"give me jack shore here all day and i actually am going to say that jack tor does find a finish eventually in that third round"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Sep 1, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Jack Shore

Cody is a big fan of Shore, citing his chain wrestling, durability, and never-say-die attitude. He thinks Shore outclasses Sholinian everywhere, especially in wrestling and boxing. He expects Shore to grind out a decision or get a late finish, and likes the over 2.5 rounds.

Over 2.5 rounds (-125), Shore by decision (+150)
"i'm a big jack short guy man he's one of these guys that's just gonna chain wrestle"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Sep 3, 2021 (1 day before fight)
Jack Shore

I'm all over Jack Shore. He's a much better grappler than Sholinian, and grappling is low variance. Shore is a finisher who actively looks for submissions and ground-and-pound. Sholinian's path to victory is control, but he's not on Shore's level. Even on the feet, I think Shore is better. I expect Shore to dominate and finish inside the distance. I like Shore inside the distance at -110 and Shore round 2 at +475.

Shore inside the distance -110, Shore round 2 +475, Under 2.5 rounds -110
"I like Shore all day here... I think he dominates this fight fairly easily and I like the ITD a lot."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert picked Sep 1, 2021 (3 days before fight)

Paul is not betting Shore at -510, finding the price too high. He acknowledges Shore's skills but is nervous about laying heavy juice. He prefers to stay away or consider the over 2.5 rounds.

Over 2.5 rounds (-125)
"i'm a little nervous about laying the wood at -510 on shore here"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Aug 30, 2021 (5 days before fight)
Jack Shore

The MMA Guru picks Jack Shore to win by second-round rear-naked choke. He praises Shore's grappling, comparing him to a Dagestani wrestler, and notes his technical and safe approach. He believes Shore's length and reactionary takedowns will be too much for Sholinian, who is a pressure fighter that walks into punishment. He expects Shore to dominate on the ground and get the submission.

second round rear naked choke
"i'm going with jack shaw of course jack shaw was supposed to be taking on saeed nurmagomedov"
WIN vs Hunter Azure
Decision (split) (30–27, 28–29, 30–27) R3 5:00 · UFC on ABC: Vettori vs. Holland · Apr 10, 2021
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Jack Shore 0 45 of 80 56% 78 of 121 0 of 6 0% 1 1 4:02
Hunter Azure 0 36 of 57 63% 57 of 84 6 of 13 46% 0 1 5:17
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Jack Shore 0 14 of 27 51% 20 of 35 0 of 1 0% 0 1 1:01
Hunter Azure 0 11 of 17 64% 15 of 23 2 of 5 40% 0 0 1:50
2 Jack Shore 0 23 of 37 62% 41 of 59 0 of 1 0% 1 0 1:54
Hunter Azure 0 14 of 23 60% 22 of 33 1 of 2 50% 0 0 1:08
3 Jack Shore 0 8 of 16 50% 17 of 27 0 of 4 0% 0 0 1:07
Hunter Azure 0 11 of 17 64% 20 of 28 3 of 6 50% 0 1 2:19
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Jack Shore 45 of 80 56% 12 of 37 14 of 19 19 of 24 35 of 64 6 of 11 4 of 5
Hunter Azure 36 of 57 63% 24 of 42 4 of 4 8 of 11 27 of 43 6 of 10 3 of 4
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Jack Shore 14 of 27 51% 2 of 12 5 of 6 7 of 9 12 of 22 1 of 4 1 of 1
Hunter Azure 11 of 17 64% 6 of 10 1 of 1 4 of 6 8 of 11 1 of 3 2 of 3
2 Jack Shore 23 of 37 62% 7 of 15 7 of 10 9 of 12 18 of 30 3 of 5 2 of 2
Hunter Azure 14 of 23 60% 9 of 17 3 of 3 2 of 3 11 of 20 3 of 3 0 of 0
3 Jack Shore 8 of 16 50% 3 of 10 2 of 3 3 of 3 5 of 12 2 of 2 1 of 2
Hunter Azure 11 of 17 64% 9 of 15 0 of 0 2 of 2 8 of 12 2 of 4 1 of 1
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Apr 7, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Jack Shore

Big Brady picks Shore to win by third-round submission, but he is not overly confident and is passing on betting. He notes Azure has good takedown defense early but poor cardio, while Shore has excellent cardio and grappling. Brady expects Shore to wear Azure down and secure a late submission, as Azure has faded in past fights. He would have bet Shore at the opener (-110) but not at the current -160.

"i'm gonna say jack shore by third round submission"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Apr 7, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Jack Shore

Cody picks Shore, praising his wrestling, cardio, and durability. He notes Azure's cardio issues and tendency to fade. He thinks Shore will grind Azure down and get a late submission or decision.

Shore by submission +300; Shore round 3 +1100
"jack shore's gonna be at the top jack shore's honest for sure i like jack shore a lot"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Lean picked Apr 9, 2021 (1 day before fight)
Jack Shore

Daniel Levi picks Jack Shore, but expects a closely contested battle. He notes that Shore is a submission specialist from Wales with good fight IQ, but Hunter Azure is a strong wrestler with power. Levi thinks Shore's stand-up will be tested and that Azure's power could change the momentum. He suggests it might be a dog-or-pass situation at the betting window.

Dog or pass situation at the betting window
"The pick is jack shore might it might actually be a dog or pass situation at the betting window"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Apr 7, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Jack Shore

The host is high on Shore, citing his great wrestling, top control, and cardio. He expects Shore to pressure Azure, suck his gas tank, and potentially get a third-round finish. He notes that Azure has questionable cardio and has slowed down in past fights. He picks Shore to win by third-round submission, and mentions that -160 is a good price.

Shore by submission round 3
"i really like jack short on the spot i don't see andra azure knocking him out i don't see him out wrestling him over 15 minutes"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Apr 7, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Jack Shore

Paul picks Shore, noting his grappling advantage and Azure's poor cardio. He thinks Shore will lean on Azure and tire him out. He took Shore by submission and round 3 props.

Shore by submission +300; Shore round 3 +1100
"i took shore by sub plus 300 and sure round three plus 1100"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Apr 4, 2021 (6 days before fight)
Jack Shore

The MMA Guru picks Jack Shore by second-round rear-naked choke, though he admits worry. He notes Shore's grappling is not wrestling-based but uses body locks and cage pressure. He thinks Azure's muscular build will lead to openings in the second round, allowing Shore to take his back. He also mentions Shore's reach advantage and good knees and kicks.

second round rear-naked choke submission
"i'm going with jack shaw but i worry i worry here"
Submission (rear-naked choke) R2 2:29 · UFC on ESPN: Kattar vs. Ige · Jul 16, 2020
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Jack Shore 0 29 of 45 64% 42 of 59 3 of 8 37% 1 0 5:25
Aaron Phillips 0 6 of 15 40% 7 of 16 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:05
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Jack Shore 0 22 of 35 62% 26 of 40 2 of 7 28% 0 0 3:43
Aaron Phillips 0 3 of 8 37% 4 of 9 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:05
2 Jack Shore 0 7 of 10 70% 16 of 19 1 of 1 100% 1 0 1:42
Aaron Phillips 0 3 of 7 42% 3 of 7 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Jack Shore 29 of 45 64% 19 of 32 5 of 6 5 of 7 7 of 14 6 of 6 16 of 25
Aaron Phillips 6 of 15 40% 1 of 9 5 of 6 0 of 0 5 of 14 1 of 1 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Jack Shore 22 of 35 62% 16 of 26 3 of 4 3 of 5 3 of 9 6 of 6 13 of 20
Aaron Phillips 3 of 8 37% 0 of 5 3 of 3 0 of 0 2 of 7 1 of 1 0 of 0
2 Jack Shore 7 of 10 70% 3 of 6 2 of 2 2 of 2 4 of 5 0 of 0 3 of 5
Aaron Phillips 3 of 7 42% 1 of 4 2 of 3 0 of 0 3 of 7 0 of 0 0 of 0
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Jul 13, 2020 (3 days before fight)
Jack Shore

Big Brady picks Jack Shore, calling him a beast and very high on him. He believes Shore can take Phillips down easily and dominate on the ground. He predicts a third-round submission, as Phillips has never been finished but hasn't faced anyone like Shore. He says Shore will be a known name soon.

"I like Jack Shore quite a bit I'm very high on this guy he is very very good"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Jul 14, 2020 (2 days before fight)
Jack Shore

Daniel Levi picks Jack Shore by submission, noting that Shore is a Welsh phenom who doesn't waste time and knows his strengths. He believes Shore will take the fight to the ground and finish quickly, as Aaron Phillips has historically struggled to stuff takedowns.

by submission
"I'm going Jack shore by submission here"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jul 12, 2020 (4 days before fight)
Jack Shore

Jack Shore is a highly touted prospect with a 12-0 amateur record and 12-0 pro record, showing elite grappling and submission skills. He completely dominated his UFC debut against Nohelin Hernandez, landing few strikes but securing a submission in the third round. His opponent Aaron Phillips is a short-notice replacement who has lost both of his previous UFC fights. The Guru expects Shore to get an easy submission in the first two rounds, likely a rear-naked choke.

submission in first two rounds, rear-naked choke
"I could cheat Jack Shaw just going in there and getting an easy submission in the first two rounds I expect that to happen Jack Shaw by submission in the first two rounds probably really naked choke because he likes …"