Giga Chikadze vs Vinicius Oliveira

Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
Giga Chikadze	0	12 of 22	54%	19 of 29	0 of 0	---	0	0	0:00
Kevin Vallejos	1	20 of 32	62%	23 of 35	0 of 1	0%	0	0	1:28

Rd	Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Rev.	Ctrl
1	Giga Chikadze	0	9 of 17	52%	16 of 24	0 of 0	---	0	0:00
Kevin Vallejos	0	9 of 18	50%	12 of 21	0 of 1	0%	0	1:27
2	Giga Chikadze	0	3 of 5	60%	3 of 5	0 of 0	---	0	0:00
Kevin Vallejos	1	11 of 14	78%	11 of 14	0 of 0	---	0	0:01

Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
Giga Chikadze	12 of 22	54%	2 of 10	10 of 10	0 of 2	12 of 22	0 of 0	0 of 0
Kevin Vallejos	20 of 32	62%	14 of 24	2 of 3	4 of 5	15 of 26	1 of 2	4 of 4

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
1	Giga Chikadze	9 of 17	52%	1 of 8	8 of 8	0 of 1	9 of 17	0 of 0	0 of 0
Kevin Vallejos	9 of 18	50%	6 of 13	1 of 2	2 of 3	8 of 16	1 of 2	0 of 0
2	Giga Chikadze	3 of 5	60%	1 of 2	2 of 2	0 of 1	3 of 5	0 of 0	0 of 0
Kevin Vallejos	11 of 14	78%	8 of 11	1 of 1	2 of 2	7 of 10	0 of 0	4 of 4

Giga Chikadze vs. Kevin Vallejos
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Vallejos (-300); Chikadze (+240)

Round 1
A potential banger at 145 pounds may treat fans over the next three rounds or fewer, as former Glory kickboxer Chikadze (15-5, 8-3 UFC) plies his trade against surging Argentinian Vallejos (16-1, 2-0 UFC). Before the feet, elbows, knees and fists fly, referee Mark Smith has to clock the fighters in. When he does, they opt to touch gloves.
After about 20 seconds of the two measuring one another, Vallejos breaks the silence with a low kick. The two stay at a wide berth from one another, too far for kicking range so they just shadowbox and hop around. Chikadze is well short of his intended target when he finally does throw his first kick, and when he tries another, he slips. Vallejos runs at him to take advantage of the moment, but Chikadze recovers and bails before Vallejos can pin him down. They get back to the center of the Octagon bobbing and faking at one another, striking totals in the single digits after two minutes. Vallejos lobs a low kick, and Chikadze checks it and splits his shin wide open.
Both men land flush, and Vallejos pushes after the kickboxer and pressures him to the wall. Smith admonishes someone for chattering at him during the fight, and they split apart. The shin wound from before gradually widens, with blood streaming down his foot. Vallejos walks the striker down and pumps him in the jaw, and he dodges a spinning wheel kick as the uneventful round wraps.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze
Dayne Fox scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze
Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze

Round 2
The two strikers once again are tentative to get going. Chikadze eventually goes into action with a body kick and a high kick. The kicks from the Georgian are keeping Vallejos from largely going after him, until he decides it is time to start fighting. He steps back to avoid a low kick, and reaches out with a right hand over the top. This clips Chikadze, who is surprised that the strike hurt him as badly as it did and backs off in a hurry. Vallejos loads up with a second that lands on the neck, and Chikadze shrugs at him, his back to the fence. Vallejos opens up with a right hand to the body that misses, but this is to set a deadly trap.
He spins with the momentum gained by turning into the direction of his right hook, and he crashes a spinning back fist square into Chikadze’s dome. Chikadze crumples to the floor at an odd angle, his right arm trapped beneath him and his left stuck as well. This allows the Argentinian to demolish him with three concussive elbows, each of which seem to shut off and reawaken the “Ninja” in rapid, painful succession.
Smith sees that Chikadze’s eyes are wide and staring lifelessly at the mat, and he waves the fight off. Chikadze tries to work himself back to his feet but is struggling to stay upright under his own power. This is the first time he has been knocked out, with Vallejos walking off triumphantly.

The Official Result
Kevin Vallejos def. Giga Chikadze R2 1:29 via KO (Spinning Back Fist and Elbows)

Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Dec 10, 2025 (3 days before fight)

Kevin Vallejos

Cody picks Vallejos, citing Giga's age, injuries, and lack of interest. He notes Vallejos's youth, durability, and pressure style, and expects him to outwork Giga by mixing in takedowns and volume. He predicts a decision win for Vallejos.

Vallejos by decision +150

"I got Kevin Vallejos to get the job done here."

Bookie Beatdown

Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Dec 7, 2025 (6 days before fight)

Kevin Vallejos

Lucrative James is a fan of Kevin Vallejos and picks him to win, possibly by knockout. He highlights Vallejos' youth, athleticism, power, and multiple paths to victory, including grappling and boxing. He notes Giga Chikadze's cardio issues and susceptibility to grappling, and believes Vallejos can finish him. He projects Vallejos as a -250 favorite.

"I'm picking Kevin in this fight. I think he's going to go out there and I'm going to pick a KO outright."

Lucrative MMA

Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Dec 10, 2025 (3 days before fight)

Kevin Vallejos

Paul also picks Vallejos, emphasizing that the key to beating Giga is constant pressure, which Vallejos excels at. He mentions Vallejos's takedown threat and body work, and suggests a Vallejos by decision prop at plus 150.

Vallejos by decision +150

"Vallejos by decision plus 150 is the best on market. It's probably how I will approach that fight this week."

Bookie Beatdown

LOSS vs David Onama

Decision R3 5:00 · UFC on ESPN: Machado Garry vs. Prates · Apr 26, 2025

Totals

Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
Giga Chikadze	0	43 of 91	47%	71 of 127	0 of 0	---	0	0	0:00
David Onama	0	49 of 87	56%	72 of 127	3 of 3	100%	0	0	6:15

Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Ctrl
1	Giga Chikadze	21 of 43	48%	26 of 48	0 of 0	---	0:00
1	David Onama	13 of 26	50%	13 of 30	1 of 1	100%	0:44
2	Giga Chikadze	11 of 20	55%	19 of 29	0 of 0	---	0:00
2	David Onama	18 of 32	56%	28 of 43	1 of 1	100%	3:07
3	Giga Chikadze	11 of 28	39%	26 of 50	0 of 0	---	0:00
3	David Onama	18 of 29	62%	31 of 54	1 of 1	100%	2:24

Significant Strikes

Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
Giga Chikadze	43 of 91	47%	23 of 66	8 of 11	12 of 14	40 of 88	2 of 2	1 of 1
David Onama	49 of 87	56%	29 of 55	1 of 6	19 of 26	38 of 75	1 of 1	10 of 11

Significant Strikes Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
1	Giga Chikadze	21 of 43	48%	9 of 26	4 of 7	8 of 10	21 of 43	0 of 0	0 of 0
1	David Onama	13 of 26	50%	9 of 17	0 of 2	4 of 7	13 of 26	0 of 0	0 of 0
2	Giga Chikadze	11 of 20	55%	8 of 17	1 of 1	2 of 2	8 of 17	2 of 2	1 of 1
2	David Onama	18 of 32	56%	8 of 19	1 of 2	9 of 11	11 of 24	1 of 1	6 of 7
3	Giga Chikadze	11 of 28	39%	6 of 23	3 of 3	2 of 2	11 of 28	0 of 0	0 of 0
3	David Onama	18 of 29	62%	12 of 19	0 of 2	6 of 8	14 of 25	0 of 0	4 of 4

Play-by-Play

View on Sherdog

Giga Chikadze (147: Missed Weight) vs. David Onama
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Onama (-180), Chikadze (+150)

Round 1
One fight tonight takes place outside of normal weight divisions, and it does so because Chikadze (15-4, 8-2 UFC) clocked in a pound heavy. The Georgian gives 20% of his purse to local fellow striker Onama (13-2, 5-2 UFC), and this one should be a whole lot of fun. Before an all-out brawl ensues, referee Keith Peterson takes charge of the cage. The fighters meet in the middle without a glove touch or any nonsense. Chikadze works from a range with a long punch, three kicks and one more punch upstairs. Chikadze chambers and fires a body kick, and Onama walks him down and reaches him with two kicks. Chikadze beats Onama to the punch with a one-two, and after a lull in the action, he quickly releases two head kicks that bang into the guard. Chikadze swings a right and then a left into the guard, with Onama shelling up just in time. Chikadze hand-fights to prevent Onama from firing anything of note, and he puts together a combination of punches ending with a kick. Onama parries a kick but has a left hand wrapped around his guard. Chikadze spins with a wheel kick that is blocked, and he lands and sneaks in a left hand. The Georgian hammers the front leg with a kick, and he aims one to the other leg before Onama can get to him. Onama reaches his target with a sharp right hand, snapping the head back and stunning the former kickboxer. Chikadze gathers a full head of steam and lashes out with a flurry of feet and fists, and Onama is able to stay right in front of him lunging with his powerful right hand. Chikadze steps in with a knee that clatters off the guard, and Onama’s long left gets in. Onama walks through a low kick to put punches on his opponent, and Chikadze is quick to reply with a step-in knee. Chikadze cracks Onama with a straight right hand, and Onama is on baby deer legs trying to stay upright. As Chikadze moves in for the kill, Onama wraps him up and gets behind him, lowering “Ninja” to the floor and taking most of his weapons away. Onama lands in half guard, with Chikadze actively attacking off his back with punches. Chikadze wraps up the guard, and he hacks with elbows until the horn sounds.

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

Round 2
The strikers resume in the second round, with Onama walking Chikadze down pecking at his lead leg with kicks. The low kicks are in part to set up a left hand for “Silent Assassin,” and Chikadze recognizes this and plants his fist on Onama’s face. Onama chips at the front leg and blocks a spinning back elbow, with his guard raised to defend a subsequent left hook. Onama gives Chikadze chase, catching him with an uppercut in the midst of a combination. Chikadze nails the front leg with a kick, and Onama shoots in for a double that he easily lands. Chikadze lands an elbow to the back of the head, and Onama hooks his legs between Chikadze’s to shut down his escape attempt. Onama steps over to the side, and Chikadze uses his feet to push off the wall and try to find a better position. Onama smothers until the Atlanta Braves’ chant is sung again from the crowd. Chikadze is desperate to stand, and Onama stops his efforts even if he does not otherwise attack with anything. Chikadze thinks about a guillotine choke, and when he moves and sits up, Onama bowls him over to his back. Onama in half guard loops his right arm behind Chikadze’s head for an arm-triangle setup, letting it go to drop down two harsh elbows. “Silent Assassin” quietly nullifies Chikadze with his top control, getting off the occasional strike until the clapper sounds with 10 seconds left. Onama lets Chikadze back up so he can measure a body kick, and backs off until the horn. He then raises his arms in the air to pump up the crowd, as they did not have a lot to cheer about in that last round otherwise.

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

Round 3
Onama again tries to pump up the audience to start the final frame, but when Peterson clocks them in, they do not do much for the first 30 seconds. Onama slowly works up his pace, landing punches and kicks until Chikadze retaliates. The Georgian responds with multiple head kicks, and his short left hook is out of reach. Onama knocks him back with two punches, and Chikadze stands in the pocket and bangs back. Chikadze lets fly a body kick, and he strikes the same spot with a left hand. When Onama lands, Chikadze gives him back a flurry of punches to think about and an axe kick for good measure. Chikadze is quicker than Onama at leading into exchanges, and he does not bite on the feints. Chikadze sneaks in a right hand just before Onama can get him, and Onama shoots in for a takedown and crashes straight into Chikadze’s dome with a loud clacking sound. Onama successfully tackles his man to the mat, foul not assessed as Chikadze was lowering himself down to defend the entry. Onama controls his man until Chikadze bursts his way to his feet. In the process, Chikadze gives up his back, and Onama leaps on it and uses it to wrangle Chikadze down to the ground again. Onama starts getting busy with his free left hand and arm, punching until an elbow presents itself. When Onama postures up, Chikadze times him with butterfly hooks to momentarily push him off. Onama gets back on top and lashes out with elbows, and Chikadze responds with a few of his own. Onama punches until time expires, with this final round likely the swing that determines the victor.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Onama (29-28 Onama)
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Onama (29-28 Onama)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Onama (29-28 Onama)

The Official Result
David Onama def. Giga Chikadze via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Apr 20, 2025 (6 days before fight)

David Onama

Angelo picks David Onama, citing his activity and pressure against a inactive Giga Chikadze. He notes that Giga is one-dimensional and has been out for two years, while Onama is a kickboxer who should stay busy and win. The odds have moved from -150 to -183 in Onama's favor.

"David Oama should win this fight."

We Want Picks

Big Brady Expert Lean picked Apr 22, 2025 (4 days before fight)

David Onama

Big Brady leans toward David Onama, assuming he will grapple. He notes Giga Chikadze's takedown defense is poor and he has been controlled on the ground before. If Onama strikes, he favors Chikadze. He predicts Onama will get takedowns, wear on Chikadze, and find a submission in the second round.

second round submission

"Give me David Oama to win this fight by second round submission."

DFS by the Numbers

Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Apr 24, 2025 (2 days before fight)

Giga Chikadze

Connor picks Chikadze because he has a significant spatial advantage over Onama, who struggles at range and needs to brawl to be effective. Chikadze's movement and ability to keep distance will make it hard for Onama to force the kind of fight he needs. Connor also notes that Chikadze is a dangerous striker who can hurt Onama, as seen in Onama's previous fights where he got hurt but survived.

"I have to pick Giga. I'm going to pick Giga Chicago as well. His chain has always seen him through just as well as it's he's Onama through."

MMA Vivisection

MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Apr 25, 2025 (1 day before fight)

David Onama

The host expects Onama to meet Chikadze's jab with bigger power, mix in grappling, and land more damage over 15 minutes to win on the scorecards.

"I expect him to go out there and meet the jab of Chicad with bigger power... which will lead him to win this fight on the scorecards by landing more damage over the course of 15 minutes."

MMA Lock of the Night

The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Apr 22, 2025 (4 days before fight)

Giga Chikadze

The MMA Guru picks Giga Chikadze as an underdog. He believes Chikadze is a better striker and underrated, citing his close fight with Arnold Allen. He criticizes Onama's low fight IQ, poor training habits, and vulnerability to pressure. He expects Chikadze to win by TKO, as Onama has been dropped by lesser opponents.

"I'm going with Giga Traedzi. David Onarma is good, but Giga Chici just went to a 29-28 decision with Arnold Allen. And I'm gonna say it, round two was very close."

THE MMA GURU

Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Apr 24, 2025 (2 days before fight)

Giga Chikadze

Zane picks Chikadze, agreeing with Connor that Chikadze's spatial advantage and ability to keep Onama at range will be key. Onama's only path to victory is to brawl, but Chikadze won't let him get close. Zane also notes that Onama has been hurt in almost every fight and Chikadze is a very dangerous striker who can finish him early. However, if Onama survives the early onslaught, he could win round three.

"I got to take Chicago as well. He may, he may also, like, I want to put a point in effect that like, just because Onama hasn't really been getting finished, he is getting hurt."

MMA Vivisection

LOSS vs Arnold Allen

Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC 304: Edwards vs. Muhammad 2 · Jul 27, 2024

Totals

Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
Arnold Allen	0	61 of 122	50%	61 of 122	0 of 1	0%	0	0	0:00
Giga Chikadze	0	38 of 111	34%	39 of 112	0 of 0	---	0	0	0:00

Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Ctrl
1	Arnold Allen	13 of 22	59%	13 of 22	0 of 1	0%	0:00
1	Giga Chikadze	14 of 33	42%	15 of 34	0 of 0	---	0:00
2	Arnold Allen	16 of 43	37%	16 of 43	0 of 0	---	0:00
2	Giga Chikadze	13 of 40	32%	13 of 40	0 of 0	---	0:00
3	Arnold Allen	32 of 57	56%	32 of 57	0 of 0	---	0:00
3	Giga Chikadze	11 of 38	28%	11 of 38	0 of 0	---	0:00

Significant Strikes

Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
Arnold Allen	61 of 122	50%	43 of 95	16 of 22	2 of 5	61 of 122	0 of 0	0 of 0
Giga Chikadze	38 of 111	34%	22 of 83	12 of 24	4 of 4	38 of 111	0 of 0	0 of 0

Significant Strikes Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
1	Arnold Allen	13 of 22	59%	9 of 17	4 of 5	0 of 0	13 of 22	0 of 0	0 of 0
1	Giga Chikadze	14 of 33	42%	7 of 22	5 of 9	2 of 2	14 of 33	0 of 0	0 of 0
2	Arnold Allen	16 of 43	37%	9 of 30	5 of 9	2 of 4	16 of 43	0 of 0	0 of 0
2	Giga Chikadze	13 of 40	32%	9 of 32	2 of 6	2 of 2	13 of 40	0 of 0	0 of 0
3	Arnold Allen	32 of 57	56%	25 of 48	7 of 8	0 of 1	32 of 57	0 of 0	0 of 0
3	Giga Chikadze	11 of 38	28%	6 of 29	5 of 9	0 of 0	11 of 38	0 of 0	0 of 0

Play-by-Play

View on Sherdog

Arnold Allen vs. Giga Chikadze
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Allen (-250), Chikadze (+205)

Round 1
A relevant featherweight encounter kicks off the main card of UFC 304, with Britain’s Allen (19-3, 10-2 UFC) trying to snap a two-fight skid at the expense of Georgian striker Chikadze (15-3, 8-1 UFC). The fans have picked their side on this one, and it is safe to say they are not rooting for the man who calls himself “Ninja.” Referee Marc Goddard will observe the proceedings for the next 15 minutes or less, and he sits back as the combatants opt not to touch gloves. Chikadze tests the waters early with a head kick, and he fires it a second time as Allen has his guard up for both of them. Chikadze kicks the side and then the front leg, only to go up high. Allen catches a body kick and tries to take Chikadze for a ride, but Chikadze bounces away and lands a kick on the way out. Allen walks him down, dinging Chikadze with a left hook as Chikadze continues to spam kicks to all three targets. Chikadze jabs and settles down, aiming a second to the chest and staying light on his feet. Allen cannot find his way in, hand-fighting and taking a body kick when trying. Chikadze sits down on a straight right hand when Allen bears down on him, and Allen takes it like a champ and gives back a high kick that hits the shoulder. Chikadze’s head kicks are all blocked, but the front forearm of his foe is reddening after absorbing the quick blows. Allen sticks a jab and ducks down to work the body before Chikadze can get away, and Chikadze gives him a body kick back to think about. A spinning wheel kick from Chikadze goes wide, and his high kick pounds into the glove of his foe. Allen responds with a single body kick, and Chikadze splits the guard with a straight right hand and follows with two speedy body kicks. Chikadze scores a check left hook and is met with a counter left hand, and Allen walks after him tossing out a kick easily blocked. Allen walks into a punch and a kick, and Chikadze pecks at him with a front kick as he constantly mixes up his attacks. Allen connects at the end of a right hand, shaking Chikadze up for a moment, but Chikadze does not back himself into a corner and instead reaches with his own right. Allen tries to wind up with leaping shots, and Chikadze is evasive and hard to get hands on. Allen ducks right into a knee, and he wobbles to the side and punts Chikadze in the face with the ball of his foot. As the Brit raises his arms in the air, the round ends.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze
Devin Tejada scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze
Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze

Round 2
Allen rushes out of his corner to attack, landing a right hand out of the gate. Chikadze hand-fights to block anything else aimed his way, and he slides away from two left hooks. Chikadze zings a high kick that brushes his foe’s hair, and Allen aims a body shot in response. Allen scores a solid calf kick and powers out with a left hand, only to be met with three piston-like jabs. Allen chops at the front calf, and Chikadze gives him one right back and jabs him to boot. Allen scores two punches, and he just avoids getting blasted with a step-in knee. Allen rings Chikadze’s bell with a straight left hand, and Chikadze has to take a quick count of his teeth. Chikadze’s speed gives Allen issues, but Allen is ignoring the strikes he absorbs and coming back with venom. Allen blocks a high kick and reaches out with a left to the sternum, and his hands are high to defend against another head kick. Chikadze shakes Allen up with a head kick, and Allen knocks him back with a left hand. Chikadze shakes it off and strafes to the side, constantly moving to not remain a stationary target. Chikadze has an uppercut come up short, and Allen nearly cuts him off with a one-two. Chikadze lands, Allen gives him one back, and Chikadze is away and spamming kicks. Allen beans “Ninja” with a solid left hand, drawing blood from both nostrils. Allen has his leg kicked out on the way in, but he still manages to get off a wide left hand. Allen chambers and fires left hands, and Chikadze prods his front leg with a kick and slips the overhand left. Allen catches him with another left, and he shoves away a leaping Chikadze and kicks high. Chikadze responds with a body kick, and the back-and-forth round ends.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Allen
Devin Tejada scores the round: 10-9 Allen
Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 Allen

Round 3
The Brit chases Chikadze around the cage as soon as the last round begins, and he manages to get his hands on Chikadze with a left hand or two. Allen walks the Georgian down, and he dodges two punches and reaches with a single shot that smears blood on Chikadze’s forehead. Chikadze comes back firing with a left over the top, and he has a body kick reach before Allen can get to him. Allen front kicks his man and elbows his way in, and Chikadze escapes as fast as he can. Allen rips a body shot and Chikadze is still ready to sling back high kicks, but they have far less sting on them than before. Allen gets off a left, takes two body kicks and continues pressuring his man around the Octagon. Chikadze steps in with a right hand and responds with a heavy left, and he follows him along with another hard left. Allen’s left hand is again accurate, and Chikadze springs into action with a body kick and a punch. Allen goes to the body and then kicks on the other side, and his left hand is hurled at Chikadze’s pectoral. Allen tosses a front kick aside and catches his foe with a left hook, and Chikadze spins but does not release anything. Allen eats a body kick without flinching so he can unload punches, and he puts a one-two down the pipe and chases Chikadze with a right. Allen ends the fight with a jump knee, and the two share an embrace and have a conversation after 15 minutes of striking.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Allen (29-28 Allen)
Devin Tejada scores the round: 10-9 Allen (29-28 Allen)
Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 Allen (29-28 Allen)

The Official Result
Arnold Allen def. Giga Chikadze via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jul 21, 2024 (6 days before fight)

Arnold Allen

Angelo picks Arnold Allen, noting that despite Allen being on a two-fight skid, those losses were to top competition (Max Holloway and Movsar Evloev). He argues that Allen looked better in those losses than Giga did in his win over Alex Caceres, where Giga was slow and threw few combinations. Angelo expects Allen to control the striking rhythm and predicts a decision win, possibly hitting the over on rounds.

over on round line

"I think Arnold controls the Striking Rhythm here I think this could look like when Qatar remember Calvin Qatar or Kar beat Giga Chad a few years ago this could look like that"

We Want Picks

Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Jul 24, 2024 (3 days before fight)

Arnold Allen

Cody picks Arnold Allen, citing his fast starts and wrestling. He notes that Giga Chikadze has not faced many wrestlers and was taken down by Calvin Kattar, who is not known for wrestling. Cody believes Allen can pressure Giga, mix in takedowns, and win a decision. He also points out that Giga is older, injury-prone, and has had long layoffs, while Allen is a step down in competition after fighting Max Holloway and Movsar Evloev.

"I'm gonna go Arnold Allen like honestly this guy was on a very solid run and earned a lot of respect from people... I do expect him to get the victory whether he shows up and shows out and puts …"

Bookie Beatdown

Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Jul 25, 2024 (2 days before fight)

Arnold Allen

Daniel picks Arnold Allen, citing his grappling advantage and youth. He believes Allen can out-grapple Chikadze and should avoid kickboxing with the kickboxer. He notes Allen has more gas in the tank despite two straight losses.

"I will take the almighty one"

MMA Gambling Podcast

Daniel Vreeland Expert Lean picked Jul 24, 2024 (3 days before fight)

Arnold Allen

Daniel likes Arnold Allen's southpaw calf kicks and blitzing style but dislikes the price (-230). He thinks Giga Chikadze has cardio issues and can be drained by takedowns. He expects a close fight likely going the distance and picks Allen to edge it out.

"I'mma go Arie to to Edge it out"

Half the Battle

Jeff Fox Expert Confident picked Jul 25, 2024 (2 days before fight)

Arnold Allen

Jeff picks Arnold Allen, noting he can win on the feet as well as by grappling. He praises Allen's body defense (except against Max Holloway) and his volume. He points out Chikadze sometimes takes long to get going and lacks volume, which Allen can exploit. He expects the line to be closer but still takes Allen.

"I like Arnold Allen in this one too I I think you know like to your point I think he could grapple in this maybe uh but I actually think he could win this fight on the feed too"

MMA Gambling Podcast

Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Jul 24, 2024 (3 days before fight)

Giga Chikadze

Paul leans towards Giga Chikadze as a dog, citing the value at plus 205. He believes if the fight stays on the feet, it will be competitive and Giga has the striking advantage. Paul acknowledges the risks of jet lag and the UK crowd but thinks the line is too wide. He expects a competitive fight and is willing to take the dog.

"I think at plus 205 the value will be squarely on Giga... I'll take the dog in that type of situation."

Bookie Beatdown

The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jul 22, 2024 (5 days before fight)

Arnold Allen

The MMA Guru picks Arnold Allen, believing he can use his offensive grappling to exploit Giga Chikadze's takedown defense. He notes that Chikadze has been exposed on the ground every time he's been taken down. The Guru also thinks Allen is close to Max Holloway's level, as shown in their fight, and that Chikadze's win over Alex Caceres was unimpressive. He predicts Allen will win by decision, possibly 29-28, using grappling in the later rounds.

decision

"I think Arnold Allen's got this one in the bag I don't see jetti troubling him with punches kicks to the body maybe a problem but I think that's going to open up some potential takedowns for Arnold Allen"

THE MMA GURU

WIN vs Alex Caceres

Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 30–27) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Holloway vs. The Korean Zombie · Aug 26, 2023

Totals

Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
Giga Chikadze	0	65 of 141	46%	65 of 141	0 of 0	---	0	0	0:00
Alex Caceres	0	62 of 168	36%	62 of 168	0 of 0	---	0	0	0:00

Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Ctrl
1	Giga Chikadze	17 of 30	56%	17 of 30	0 of 0	---	0:00
1	Alex Caceres	15 of 39	38%	15 of 39	0 of 0	---	0:00
2	Giga Chikadze	23 of 44	52%	23 of 44	0 of 0	---	0:00
2	Alex Caceres	24 of 61	39%	24 of 61	0 of 0	---	0:00
3	Giga Chikadze	25 of 67	37%	25 of 67	0 of 0	---	0:00
3	Alex Caceres	23 of 68	33%	23 of 68	0 of 0	---	0:00

Significant Strikes

Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
Giga Chikadze	65 of 141	46%	25 of 83	22 of 38	18 of 20	65 of 139	0 of 2	0 of 0
Alex Caceres	62 of 168	36%	25 of 110	25 of 44	12 of 14	62 of 168	0 of 0	0 of 0

Significant Strikes Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
1	Giga Chikadze	17 of 30	56%	7 of 16	5 of 8	5 of 6	17 of 30	0 of 0	0 of 0
1	Alex Caceres	15 of 39	38%	5 of 23	5 of 10	5 of 6	15 of 39	0 of 0	0 of 0
2	Giga Chikadze	23 of 44	52%	14 of 30	4 of 9	5 of 5	23 of 43	0 of 1	0 of 0
2	Alex Caceres	24 of 61	39%	8 of 40	12 of 16	4 of 5	24 of 61	0 of 0	0 of 0
3	Giga Chikadze	25 of 67	37%	4 of 37	13 of 21	8 of 9	25 of 66	0 of 1	0 of 0
3	Alex Caceres	23 of 68	33%	12 of 47	8 of 18	3 of 3	23 of 68	0 of 0	0 of 0

Play-by-Play

View on Sherdog

Giga Chikadze vs. Alex Caceres
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Chikadze (-245), Caceres (+200)

Round 1
A hotly anticipated featherweight scrap heats up the room in Southeast Asia. Chikadze finds his way back into the cage for the first time in more than a year and looks to rebound from a decision defeat to Calvin Kattar that put an end to his nine-fight winning streak. Caceres appears to be enjoying a mid-career resurgence, with victories seven of his past eight bouts. Marc Goddard gets the nod to officiate. Caceres opens with a side kick to the body and looks light on his feet. Chikadze stalks from the center of the cage and uses feints to back up the Miami native. Caceres connects with a crisp one-two, then stomps at the knee. Chikadze partially blocks and spinning backfist and targets the body with one of his patented kicks. Caceres controls the center of the cage but eats a right hand over the top. His unorthodox style seems to be giving Chikadze trouble. Caceras throws in a jab, follows it with a low kick and misfires on a Superman punch. Chikadze still throwing in single strikes. So far, Caceres is holding his own on the feet. Chikadze meets him with a jab in the center of the cage, as Caceres lunges in and out with punches. They trade right hands as the horn sounds.

Sherdog Scores
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Caceres
Tudor Leonte scores the round: 10-9 Caceres
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze

Round 2
Caceres once again gets out of the gate first. Chikadze looks keen to counter, but the Georgian is still only throwing one shot at a time. Lack of output is limiting his effectiveness. Chikadze follows a sharp jab with a right cross. The Kings MMA rep seems to have found his rang and timing, as he starts to connect in combination. Caceres dives in with a right hook to the body and exits without absorbing anything in return. Chikadze steps into a right hand, then follows a jab with a heavy straight right, snapping back his counterpart’s head. There is a noticeable difference in the impact of their shots. Chikadze uncorks a kicks to the body, backs out of the pocket and answers a leg kick with a right cross. Momentum has definitely shifted here.

Sherdog Scores
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze
Tudor Leonte scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze

Round 3
Chikadze gives Caceres pause with a head kick to start Round 3, then rattles him with a jarring right hook. The Georgian counters a low kick with an overhand right and continues to land the more impactful blows. Caceres probably needs to alter his strategy, though he punctuates a nice combination with a partially blocked head kick. The Miami native smiles, as Chikadze remains stoic and hunts opportunities. Kicks to the leg and body back up Caceres, who is swinging and missing far more often now. Chikadze steps into another right hand, nearly spinning around “The Ultimate Fighter” Season 12 graduate. With 90 seconds left, Caceres needs to put forth something significant. Chikadze circles on the outside and delivers a heavy kick to the chest. A two-punch volley comes next. Caceres is running out of time. Chikadze counters while moving backward and chews up the remaining seconds on the clock.

Sherdog Scores
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze (29-28 Chikadze)
Tudor Leonte scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze (29-28 Chikadze)
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze (30-27 Chikadze)

The Official Result
Giga Chikadze def. Alex Caceres—Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-37, 30-27)

Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Aug 20, 2023 (6 days before fight)

Giga Chikadze

Angelo sees Giga as the much better striker and dangerous, but worries about the long layoff (1.5 years) and takedown defense issues from past losses. He notes that Caceres is a tough veteran with good scrambles. He picks Giga but is undecided on betting him, as the layoff and Caceres' toughness give him pause.

"this should be Giga all day long he's going to be the much better Striker the far more dangerous guy"

We Want Picks

Big Brady Expert Confident picked Aug 21, 2023 (5 days before fight)

Giga Chikadze

Big Brady acknowledges Giga Chikadze's long layoff and loss to Calvin Kattar but sees this as a good matchup for him. He notes that Alex Caceres doesn't use his wrestling and prefers to strike, which favors Giga. He believes Giga is the better striker with more power and tools, and expects him to win a kickboxing fight by decision.

decision

"I like eager here to win a kickboxing fight across 15 minutes"

DFS by the Numbers

Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Aug 24, 2023 (2 days before fight)

Giga Chikadze

Cody is tempted by the underdog line on Caceres but ultimately picks Chikadze. He notes that Caceres has a grappling advantage but may not be able to get takedowns against a high-level striker. Chikadze's striking is elite and he should win if he keeps it standing. Cody is not highly confident due to the 16-month layoff and grappling risk.

"super tempted by that Underdog money and I think it's very juicy but there's a couple other underdogs later on"

Bookie Beatdown

Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Aug 24, 2023 (2 days before fight)

Giga Chikadze

Daniel picks Giga Chikadze, noting that this is a major step down in competition from Calvin Kattar. He believes Giga's power advantage is one-sided and that Caceres doesn't have the power to hurt him. He acknowledges concerns about Giga's layoff and surgeries, but thinks he cruises to a victory, possibly by knockout. He mentions that Caceres has a grappling edge but rarely uses takedowns.

"if I have to pick a winner I think Giga probably cruises to a victory here could even be a knockout"

Half the Battle

Lucrative James Expert Lean picked Aug 26, 2023 (fight day)

Alex Caceres

James picks Alex Caceres as an underdog, citing Giga's long layoff, age (35), and the beating he took from Calvin Kattar. He believes Caceres can keep the striking close and has a massive grappling edge if the fight goes to the mat. He notes Giga gasses quickly after grappling exchanges, and Caceres could submit him or win via cardio advantage. He sees value at +210.

bet on Alex Caceres moneyline

"I've actually got a bell and Alex caceres here"

Lucrative MMA

MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Aug 22, 2023 (4 days before fight)

Alex Caceres

The host notes Giga Chikadze has been out for over a year and was exposed by Calvin Kattar's grappling. He believes Caceres is in his best form, with an unorthodox striking style and a dangerous Jiu-Jitsu game. The host expects Caceres to stifle Chikadze's early power, take the fight to the ground, and possibly find a submission. He calls the +210 odds 'crazy' and picks Caceres by decision.

"The fact that we can get Alexis air as close to plus 210 in this fight I think is crazy."

MMA Lock of the Night

Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Aug 24, 2023 (2 days before fight)

Giga Chikadze

Paul agrees with Cody, noting that Caceres' path to victory is via grappling, but Chikadze's striking is superior. He mentions Caceres' loss to Yusuff as a blueprint for how this fight could go. Paul is not confident enough to bet Chikadze at the price.

"total agreement not don't really have anything to add to that one"

Bookie Beatdown

The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Aug 22, 2023 (4 days before fight)

Alex Caceres

The MMA Guru picks Alex Caceres as an underdog over Giga Chikadze, envisioning Caceres finding a back take and rear-naked choke. He notes Caceres' momentum and two-fight winning streak, and Chikadze's struggles against well-rounded opponents who threaten takedowns. He believes Chikadze's best performances are against pure strikers, and Caceres' grappling threat will make Chikadze second-guess. He predicts a submission in round two via standing back take.

Submission via rear-naked choke in round 2 predicted

"I'm gonna go Alex casares ... my heart is telling me that he finds the back at some point and gets a really naked joke"

THE MMA GURU

LOSS vs Calvin Kattar

Decision (unanimous) (50–45, 50–45, 50–44) R5 5:00 · UFC on ESPN: Kattar vs. Chikadze · Jan 15, 2022

Totals

Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
Calvin Kattar	1	144 of 402	35%	157 of 418	2 of 7	28%	1	1	3:42
Giga Chikadze	0	128 of 347	36%	129 of 348	0 of 0	---	0	1	0:09

Per Round

Rd	Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
1	Calvin Kattar	0	4 of 7	57%	17 of 23	1 of 1	100%	1	1	3:19
1	Giga Chikadze	0	8 of 19	42%	9 of 20	0 of 0	---	0	1	0:09
2	Calvin Kattar	0	28 of 81	34%	28 of 81	1 of 2	50%	0	0	0:08
2	Giga Chikadze	0	38 of 99	38%	38 of 99	0 of 0	---	0	0	0:00
3	Calvin Kattar	0	25 of 87	28%	25 of 87	0 of 1	0%	0	0	0:08
3	Giga Chikadze	0	22 of 67	32%	22 of 67	0 of 0	---	0	0	0:00
4	Calvin Kattar	0	36 of 102	35%	36 of 102	0 of 3	0%	0	0	0:02
4	Giga Chikadze	0	28 of 70	40%	28 of 70	0 of 0	---	0	0	0:00
5	Calvin Kattar	1	51 of 125	40%	51 of 125	0 of 0	---	0	0	0:05
5	Giga Chikadze	0	32 of 92	34%	32 of 92	0 of 0	---	0	0	0:00

Significant Strikes

Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
Calvin Kattar	144 of 402	35%	127 of 369	13 of 28	4 of 5	135 of 390	2 of 2	7 of 10
Giga Chikadze	128 of 347	36%	94 of 297	27 of 41	7 of 9	127 of 344	1 of 3	0 of 0

Significant Strikes Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
1	Calvin Kattar	4 of 7	57%	2 of 5	0 of 0	2 of 2	3 of 5	0 of 0	1 of 2
1	Giga Chikadze	8 of 19	42%	4 of 14	2 of 2	2 of 3	8 of 19	0 of 0	0 of 0
2	Calvin Kattar	28 of 81	34%	26 of 77	2 of 3	0 of 1	23 of 75	2 of 2	3 of 4
2	Giga Chikadze	38 of 99	38%	30 of 89	8 of 10	0 of 0	38 of 99	0 of 0	0 of 0
3	Calvin Kattar	25 of 87	28%	22 of 78	3 of 9	0 of 0	25 of 87	0 of 0	0 of 0
3	Giga Chikadze	22 of 67	32%	18 of 61	1 of 2	3 of 4	22 of 67	0 of 0	0 of 0
4	Calvin Kattar	36 of 102	35%	32 of 94	3 of 7	1 of 1	36 of 102	0 of 0	0 of 0
4	Giga Chikadze	28 of 70	40%	20 of 57	6 of 11	2 of 2	27 of 67	1 of 3	0 of 0
5	Calvin Kattar	51 of 125	40%	45 of 115	5 of 9	1 of 1	48 of 121	0 of 0	3 of 4
5	Giga Chikadze	32 of 92	34%	22 of 76	10 of 16	0 of 0	32 of 92	0 of 0	0 of 0

Play-by-Play

View on Sherdog

Calvin Kattar vs. Giga Chikadze

Round 1
The main event kicks off, with referee Keith Peterson having banished all vestiges of nonsense from the premises by means of ancient, arcane and forbidden magic. The first strike of the fight is a right outside leg kick by Chikadze. He lands another, then a front kick to the chin. Kattar is coming forward, switching stances and throwing jabs from both sides. Chikadze is backpedaling and using lateral movement to avoid being backed into the fence. Chikadze lands a low kick, followed by a kick to the body. Kattar times the next one and explodes forward for a huge takedown. Kattar lands in half guard. Two minutes gone in the round, and Kattar is heavy on top, denying a hip escape. Kattar looking to pass to side control, but can’t. Chikadze stuffs him back to a deep half guard. Kattar briefly contemplates isolating the far arm, but Chikadze is active with his hips and Kattar is forced to hold him down. Chikadze grabs a guillotine, but Kattar hops to the opposite side. Chikadze sweeps to top, but Kattar has an arm-triangle from the bottom and moves to the back. Kattar is working with a body triangle from the back, throwing punches as the round ends.

Sherdog Scores
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Kattar
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Kattar
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Kattar

Round 2
Chikadze lands a solid body kick. Kattar comes into punching range and Chikadze lands a pair of hooks to the body, followed by a left kick. Kattar counters a body kick with a sharp left hand. Kattar is still coming forward relentlessly, switching stances frequently, and Chikadze is having trouble adjusting, even as he lands. Kattar lands a hard right hook that hurts Chikadze. Kattar tries dropping for a single leg, but Chikadze evades it easily. Kattar lands a two-punch combination, followed by a step-in elbow. Chikadze retreats, and Kattar keeps the pressure on. Under a minute left, and “The Boston Finisher” has all the momentum. Chikadze lands a pair of punches, and Kattar responds with a spinning back elbow that lands flush. Kattar lands a takedown at the 10-second clapper and nails Chikadze with a couple of punches before he can stand. The horn sounds.

Sherdog Scores
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Kattar
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Kattar
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Kattar

Round 3
Kattar continues to come forward, pressuring Chikadze, and lands a one-two. Kattar is in control, and Chikadze is starting to look tired, discouraged or both. Chikadze lands an outside calf kick, then another. Kattar lands a right cross, and Chikadze whiffs on a counter. Kattar drops for a single-leg and chases Chikadze all the way across the Octagon with it, where the Georgian uses a fence grab to steady himself, lets it go quickly, but not before it succeeds in foiling the takedown. Under two minutes left and they’re standing in the center of the cage again. Kattar’s jab is busting Chikadze up. Chikadze lands a pair of hard punches, but stumbles afterward, off-balance or just fatigued. Kattar comes forward with 30 seconds left and throws a one-two and a body kick. Chikadze catches Kattar with a flush right and takes another back elbow for his trouble, right before the horn.

Sherdog Scores
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Kattar
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Kattar
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Kattar

Round 4
The main event rounds open up with both men’s face showing wear, but Chikadze’s more so. Kattar walks him down and lands a jab. And another. Chikadze denies a takedown attempt against the cage. Kattar’s jab is once again right in Chikadze’s face as the Bostonian moves forward. Kattar throws another step-in elbow. Chikadze throws a body kick, but Kattar punishes him with a three-punch combo. Halfway through the round, Kattar catches a kick and marches forward, throwing punches while holding the leg. Chikadze lands a solid straight left, but the volume advantage is definitely with Kattar. They land simultaneous jabs. Kattar has busted the right eye of Chikadze badly, cuts above as well as below. The horn sounds on another easy Kattar round.

Sherdog Scores
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Kattar
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Kattar
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Kattar

Round 5
The final round begins as the other four did, with Kattar marching forward and cutting off the cage, but Chikadze explodes forward and tags him with a flurry of punches. Kattar keeps coming, though, and lands his own relentless volley of jabs. Chikadze lands a body kick, but Kattar is just overwhelming him. Kattar lands a high kick of his own. Chikadze comes forward, and Kattar counters with elbow strikes from both sides, then throws a kick up the middle. The round hits its halfway point, and Chikadze is still doing his best to find the finish he clearly knows he needs, but Kattar is far fresher and answering everything with two or more strikes to one. Kattar begins looking for bigger single shots on the flagging Chikadze, and lands a couple, leaving the Georgian stumbling backward. Kattar lands another spinning back elbow. Chikadze throws a kick up the middle. Under 30 seconds left and both men are still looking for the knockout. Kattar drops Chikadze with an elbow strike with under 10 seconds left, and referee Peterson looks on closely as he follows up with punches, but the round expires. Complete bell-to-bell performance by Calvin Kattar.

Sherdog Scores
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Kattar (50-45 Kattar)
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Kattar (50-45 Kattar)
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Kattar (50-45 Kattar)

The Official Result
Calvin Kattar def. Giga Chikadze via Unanimous Decision (50-45, 50-45, 50-44)

Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jan 13, 2022 (2 days before fight)

Giga Chikadze

Angelo picks Chikadze as the safe pick, citing his phenomenal striking, kicks, and range management. He notes Kattar is a live underdog with excellent boxing and a wrestling background that could pose problems if he pressures. He mentions possibly sprinkling a bet on Kattar.

May sprinkle a bet on Kattar as underdog.

"geek is the pick but that's a safe pick calvin qatar is very live here"

We Want Picks

Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Jan 10, 2022 (5 days before fight)

Giga Chikadze

Big Brady admits he has been a Giga Chikadze hater but acknowledges Giga's improvements, especially his cardio in the Omar Morales fight. He notes Giga has never seen the fourth or fifth round and has slowed down in the past, while Calvin Kattar has a steel chin and absorbs strikes. Brady expects Giga to win the first three rounds and take a decision, but is hesitant due to the five-round distance and Kattar's durability. He does not like the moneyline at -233 and would not bet it.

"I'm going to say giga chicago does win this fight i'm going to say he does win a decision"

DFS by the Numbers

Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Jan 12, 2022 (3 days before fight)

Giga Chikadze

Cody picks Giga Chikadze, emphasizing his clean kickboxing and ability to dictate range with kicks. He notes Kattar struggles against longer opponents and that Giga's cardio looked solid in recent fights. He worries about Giga's takedown defense but doubts Kattar will wrestle. He suggests betting Kattar live after the second or third round if he survives the early onslaught.

Consider hedging on Kattar after round 2 or 3 if he survives

"as far as striker versus striker goes gotta go with the better striker better striker is giga just don't love the price tag"

Bookie Beatdown

Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Jan 13, 2022 (2 days before fight)

Giga Chikadze

Daniel Levi picks Giga Chikadze to win and be the first to finish Calvin Kattar via strikes. He argues that Kattar is a one-dimensional boxer with a negative strike differential, and that Giga's diverse striking—especially body kicks and head kicks—will be too much. He notes Giga has improved his cardio and grappling, citing his anaconda attempt on Barboza and brown belt in jiu-jitsu. Levi acknowledges Kattar's toughness and right hand but believes Giga's precision and power will prevail. He placed 5 units on Giga at -215.

5 units at -215

"I think giga chikazi is going to be the first man in mma history to finish calvin kater via strikes and i think he's going to open a lot of eyes so yeah give me giga chikazi i put five …"

Half the Battle

MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Jan 9, 2022 (6 days before fight)

Giga Chikadze

The host believes Giga Chikadze's kick-heavy game plan will be the key to victory, targeting Calvin Kattar's legs which have historically been a weakness. He notes that Kattar is the better technical boxer, but Chikadze's diverse kicking attacks (leg, body, head) and ability to switch targets will slow Kattar down. The host is confident Chikadze can implement this strategy effectively, though he acknowledges the fight could go the distance if Kattar absorbs the kicks and keeps moving forward. He ultimately picks Chikadze by decision, but also considers an inside-the-distance finish possible.

Decision prop at +325, over 2.5 rounds at -135 mentioned as possible bets.

"i'll go to kaze... i'm stuck between decision and inside the distance honestly... i'm gonna go chicago just staying methodical staying cerebral as well and just staying on the outside letting those leg kicks go"

MMA Lock of the Night

Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Jan 12, 2022 (3 days before fight)

Giga Chikadze

Paul leans toward Giga Chikadze as the better striker, noting that if the fight stays at kicking range, Kattar will get torn up. He acknowledges Kattar's boxing and pressure but believes Giga's kicks and range control are decisive. He mentions the line is close to accurate but doesn't love the -235 price. He suggests Kattar might have a path via wrestling, but considers it unlikely.

"if this fight takes place at kicking range uh you got to imagine that calvin kater is going to get torn up completely"

Bookie Beatdown

The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jan 10, 2022 (5 days before fight)

Giga Chikadze

The MMA Guru picks Giga Chikadze to win by decision, citing Chikadze's superior kicking game and Kattar's well-known vulnerability to leg kicks, as exposed by Renato Moicano. He notes that Kattar is a slow starter who struggles with kicks, and coming off a year-long layoff after taking massive damage against Max Holloway, he expects Kattar to be even more hesitant early. Chikadze's activity (three fights in the past year) and improved takedown defense are also factors, as Kattar is unlikely to wrestle. However, he acknowledges Kattar is a good underdog and could pull off an upset if he survives the early kicking onslaught.

Kattar is a good underdog at nearly 2-to-1 odds; Chikadze is a 2-to-1 favorite. Prediction: Chikadze by decision (49-46).

"i'm gonna go with the gigachicken but don't be surprised if qatar gets the upset man"

THE MMA GURU

WIN vs Edson Barboza

TKO (punches) R3 1:44 · UFC on ESPN: Barboza vs. Chikadze · Aug 28, 2021

Totals

Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
Giga Chikadze	0	33 of 95	34%	33 of 95	0 of 0	---	0	0	0:00
Edson Barboza	2	60 of 117	51%	70 of 128	0 of 0	---	2	0	0:41

Per Round

Rd	Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Ctrl
1	Giga Chikadze	0	10 of 26	38%	10 of 26	0 of 0	---	0	0:00
1	Edson Barboza	0	17 of 43	39%	17 of 43	0 of 0	---	0	0:00
2	Giga Chikadze	0	19 of 56	33%	19 of 56	0 of 0	---	0	0:00
2	Edson Barboza	0	22 of 47	46%	22 of 47	0 of 0	---	0	0:00
3	Giga Chikadze	0	4 of 13	30%	4 of 13	0 of 0	---	0	0:00
3	Edson Barboza	2	21 of 27	77%	31 of 38	0 of 0	---	2	0:41

Significant Strikes

Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
Giga Chikadze	33 of 95	34%	15 of 70	10 of 15	8 of 10	33 of 95	0 of 0	0 of 0
Edson Barboza	60 of 117	51%	31 of 80	16 of 22	13 of 15	56 of 113	0 of 0	4 of 4

Significant Strikes Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
1	Giga Chikadze	10 of 26	38%	4 of 17	3 of 4	3 of 5	10 of 26	0 of 0	0 of 0
1	Edson Barboza	17 of 43	39%	6 of 27	5 of 8	6 of 8	17 of 43	0 of 0	0 of 0
2	Giga Chikadze	19 of 56	33%	8 of 41	6 of 10	5 of 5	19 of 56	0 of 0	0 of 0
2	Edson Barboza	22 of 47	46%	10 of 33	6 of 8	6 of 6	22 of 47	0 of 0	0 of 0
3	Giga Chikadze	4 of 13	30%	3 of 12	1 of 1	0 of 0	4 of 13	0 of 0	0 of 0
3	Edson Barboza	21 of 27	77%	15 of 20	5 of 6	1 of 1	17 of 23	0 of 0	4 of 4

Play-by-Play

View on Sherdog

Edson Barboza vs. Giga Chikadze

Round 1
The moment we’ve all been waiting for has arrived, with respect to those participating on the 29th season of TUF. Two powerful, flashy strikers with eerily similar striking stats toe the line when Barboza (22-9, 16-9 UFC) faces Chikadze (13-2, 6-0 UFC). For Barboza, he can cement his place as a contender at featherweight; for Chikadze, he can announce himself to the world as a legitimate top-tier 145er. Referee Jason Herzog is holding down the fort for this one, and gloves are not touched before they are traded heavily and in high intensity. The first strike of the match comes from Chikadze, who lands a leg kick. Barboza returns fire with his own kick, and the featherweights are coiled and ready to strike. Barboza starts to walk Chikadze down, backing him up into the fence, and he is forced to try to check a quick leg kick. Barboza checks a body kick with a high knee, but an inside chopping kick lands. When Barboza fires off a leg kick, it gets checked as well. Chikadze goes high with a kick that brushes past Barboza’s head, and the Brazilian looks surprised as it zooms at him. Chikadze leaps in the air with a check flying knee, and Barboza just sees it coming in time to avoid it. When Barboza has a calf kick checked, he fires off another that does not get blocked. Barboza looks to feint his way in and he blocks a high kick and checks a body kick with his quick reflexes. Barboza wings an overhand left, and Chikadze is barely able to get out of the way lest it lop his head off. Chikadze spins with a kick to the body, and Barboza marches through it and lands a few punches. Barboza trips Chikadze on the way when Chikadze tries to press the action, and he stands back defiantly as Chikadze aims a flying knee. When Barboza connects with a leg kick, Chikadze points at his leg and then fires off two high kicks. Chikadze drills the body with a kick, and he might have Barboza smarting as Barboza chomps down on his mouthpiece and throws winging punches. Chikadze strides after him confidently, landing a few and evading the counters. Chikadze rips the body with a kick, and he targets the liver and points at Barboza. A high kick and an axe kick attempt from the Georgian conclude the kick-heavy round.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze

Round 2
The featherweights trade calf kicks initially, and Barboza is the one to try to throw hands as he swings a right hand. He times a Chikadze flying knee to kick him up the body, and he stands tall to score when Chikadze lands. Chikadze circles around the outer edge of the fence to chop at the Brazilian with kicks, and Barboza comes up short when trying to give chase. Chikadze connects with a left hand and a liver kick, and Barboza gives chase as he absorbs a stunning right hand. Barboza shakes it off and keeps pressuring Chikadze, where he lands a trio of punches on the way in. Chikadze lets loose a high kick and a liver kick in rapid succession, and the kick to the side keeps finding its home. Barboza scores a calf kick that makes the Georgian changes stances, and Chikadze whips up a high kick with his lead leg. Barboza rips the body with a right hand, and he checks the vaunted “Giga kick” with a high knee block. The Brazilian continues his assault on the body with big hooks and kicks, and Chikadze backs off right into an overhand right. Barboza plods forward as Chikadze appears to be slowing to a degree, allowing him to cut Chikadze off and set up strikes. Barboza nails the lead leg with a heavy kick, and Chikadze tries to return fire with an axe kick but he gets jabbed for his effort. Chikadze gets off a pair of punches as Barboza walks him down like a Brazilian Terminator, and Barboza keeps on drilling punches to the body. Chikadze spams a few axe kicks that hit nothing but his foe’s guard, and Barboza stabs his toes to the midsection. Barboza sweeps the leg, and Chikadze comes back at him with a single leg kick before the round ends.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Barboza
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Barboza
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Barboza

Round 3
Barboza takes the center of the cage and doubles up on a jab, and Chikadze is ready to fire back but misses the mark when Barboza ducks. Barboza sticks out a few more jabs as Chikadze backs away, and the Georgian scores a kick to the knee when Barboza tries to come at him. Chikadze blasts Barboza with a huge right hand, and Barboza is suddenly on the ropes as Chikadze walks him down to try to do damage. Barboza’s eye is busted up, and Chikadze charges with a barrage of punches. A few right hands knock Barboza back, and Barboza is in trouble and falls over to the ground. Chikadze looks to finish the job as he lands a few punches from on top, and Barboza holds on tight to clear the cobwebs. Barboza looks for a heel hook from his back as he is hurt badly, and when he sits up in it, the Georgian latches on to an anaconda choke out of nowhere. Barboza walks off the cage to break the grip of the choke, and he powers his way to his knees and then back to his feet.
Barboza is still on baby deer legs when he gets back up, and Chikadze takes note this and drops the hammer with a trio of punches that sends Barboza crashing back down to the canvas. Herzog has seen enough, sensing that Barboza may be out even if he is able to amble back to his feet.
“Ninja” successfully puts himself on the map with a wild performance over a perennial contender, and he thanks his opponent for the opportunity and the tough challenge. In his post-fight interview, Chikadze says he would be glad to fill in if a competitor in the featherweight title fight falls through, but if not, that there is a certain Hawaiian in his sights – Max Holloway. Should that striker’s delight come to fruition, we will be here for it, and we hope you are too.

The Official Result
Giga Chikadze def. Edson Barboza R3 1:44 via TKO (Punches)

Angelo Bodetti Expert Hesitant picked Aug 25, 2021 (3 days before fight)

Edson Barboza

Angelo picks Barboza, citing his leg kicks as the difference, veteran savvy, and more tools (jiu-jitsu, experience). He notes Chikadze is the future but hasn't faced leg kicks. He has Barboza in his DraftKings lineup at 8200 and calls the fight razor thin.

Angelo likes the less more on monkey knife fight.

"my pick is honestly edson barboza i think the leg kicks are the difference here"

We Want Picks

Cody Saftic Expert Hesitant picked Aug 25, 2021 (3 days before fight)

Edson Barboza

Cody picks Barboza but is hesitant, noting Barboza's age (35) and the risk that Giga could have a breakout performance. He values Barboza's experience and durability, having faced top competition, while Giga's resume is softer. Cody is worried about Giga's cardio after seeing him slow in round three against Jamall Emmers, and thinks Barboza's volume and wrestling advantage could be key if he survives the early danger. He already bet Barboza at -110 and says he won't have high investment.

already bet Edson Barboza at -110; won't have highest investment

"I already bet edson barbos so I got him at 110 minus 115 is fine"

Bookie Beatdown

Jacob Lines Expert Confident picked Aug 25, 2021 (3 days before fight)

Giga Chikadze

Jacob picks Chikadze, calling him an assassin who is on another level. He notes Chikadze is never in trouble and controls distance. He got Chikadze at +100 and has him in his lineup for five rounds, expecting a war. He also placed a half-unit bet on Chikadze in the third round.

Jacob got Chikadze at +100; he placed a half-unit bet on Chikadze in the third round.

"i actually got giga for plus 100 when i saw plus 100"

We Want Picks

MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Aug 27, 2021 (1 day before fight)

Edson Barboza

Lock leans slightly to Barboza, citing his volume and pace advantage over Giga. He believes Barboza's durability at 145 has held up and that Giga's cardio issues will be exposed in a five-round fight. Lock expects Barboza to get a finish in the later rounds, specifically liking the under 4.5 rounds and Barboza by KO at +270. He notes Giga's power is dangerous early but thinks Barboza's experience and activity will be the difference.

under 4.5 rounds -130, Barboza by KO +270, Barboza round 3 +1100, round 4 +1450, round 5 +2075

"I ever so slightly lean on the barboza side here i think that his volume is ultimately going to catch up to giga and i think that giga will start to slow down the later that this fight goes"

MMA Lock of the Night

Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Aug 25, 2021 (3 days before fight)

Edson Barboza

Paul picks Barboza, citing Barboza's higher striking volume and Giga's cardio issues seen in the Emmers fight. He notes Barboza's wrestling advantage and thinks if Barboza gets through the first two rounds, he'll be even stronger. Paul is scared away from Giga by his third-round fade against Emmers. He also mentions the line moving toward Barboza but remains confident.

"if edson gets out of the first two rounds in this fight i like him even more so i'm in on edson barbosa"

Bookie Beatdown

The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Aug 22, 2021 (6 days before fight)

Edson Barboza

The Guru picks Edson Barboza over Giga Chikadze, citing Barboza's superior striking, experience in main events, and proven cardio at featherweight. He notes that Chikadze has close split decisions against Jamall Emmers and Brandon Davis, which are red flags. The Guru expects Barboza to chop Chikadze's legs with calf kicks and win a decision, possibly 4 rounds to 1. He also mentions Barboza's takedown option as a potential factor.

Barboza by decision, calf kicks to be a factor

"i think edson barboza is a way better striker way more experience under the big lights he's been in main events before"

THE MMA GURU

WIN vs Cub Swanson

TKO (body kick and punches) R1 1:03 · UFC on ESPN: Reyes vs. Prochazka · May 01, 2021

Totals

Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
Giga Chikadze	1	12 of 18	66%	12 of 18	0 of 0	---	0	0	0:05
Cub Swanson	0	4 of 6	66%	4 of 6	0 of 0	---	0	0	0:00

Per Round

Rd	Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
1	Giga Chikadze	1	12 of 18	66%	12 of 18	0 of 0	---	0	0	0:05
1	Cub Swanson	0	4 of 6	66%	4 of 6	0 of 0	---	0	0	0:00

Significant Strikes

Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
Giga Chikadze	12 of 18	66%	9 of 14	2 of 3	1 of 1	7 of 11	0 of 0	5 of 7
Cub Swanson	4 of 6	66%	1 of 1	0 of 0	3 of 5	4 of 6	0 of 0	0 of 0

Significant Strikes Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
1	Giga Chikadze	12 of 18	66%	9 of 14	2 of 3	1 of 1	7 of 11	0 of 0	5 of 7
1	Cub Swanson	4 of 6	66%	1 of 1	0 of 0	3 of 5	4 of 6	0 of 0	0 of 0

Play-by-Play

View on Sherdog

Giga Chikadze vs. Cub Swanson

Round 1
Our co-main event comes in the form of a striker’s delight at featherweight between the old guard of Swanson (27-11, 12-7 UFC) against the relatively young gun in Chikadze (12-2, 5-0 UFC). Whether this is a passing of the torch or a reminder that there is still something left in the tank, referee Jason Herzog will oversee the affair. There is no touch of gloves, as Chikadze begins his fight with a few kicks. Swanson looks to close the distance early, and he walks through a few kicks to reach out with a big overhand right. The Georgia circles away on the outside, and he gets off a right hand that makes Swanson take a few steps back.
The kickboxer slings a high kick and sneaks out a left hand, and he releases a thunderous body kick he titles his “Giga Kick” that slams square into Swanson’s liver. The longtime vet’s typically stoic expression contorts in pain as he backs away and falls to his knees. Swanson looks to reach out for any sort of desperation shot or leg grab, but Chikadze slips his leg out and starts pounding away.
It does not take more than a few punches for Herzog to call the fight off, and Georgian fighters have now stolen the night by winning across the board. This is our first official finish of the night – the Markos fight was a disqualification that ended by a foul – and the first time Swanson has been knocked out since Jose Aldo’s fateful double flying knee in 2009.

The Official Result
Giga Chikadze def. Cub Swanson R1 1:03 via TKO (Body Kick and Punches)

Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Apr 27, 2021 (4 days before fight)

Giga Chikadze

Big Brady picks Giga Chikadze to win a close decision, but he is hesitant and hates the line. He acknowledges Chikadze's improvements, especially in takedown defense and striking output, as seen in the Morales fight. However, he notes that Swanson is durable and on a roll, and that Chikadze has been taken down in the past. Brady thinks the line should be closer and that Swanson could be live if he wrestles more, but he ultimately goes with Chikadze's flashier strikes.

"i'm going to take ciacatse to win by a close decision"

DFS by the Numbers

Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Apr 27, 2021 (4 days before fight)

Cub Swanson

Cody sees Cub Swanson as a live underdog with many variables in his favor: savvy veteran experience, ground game advantage, and a history of performing well as an underdog. He notes that Swanson has a BJJ black belt and wrestling advantage, and that Giga has not faced a grappler who actually uses their ground game. However, he is concerned that Giga is tall for the division and a tricky striker, and that Swanson needs to use his wrestling to win. He labels this a 'dogger pass' situation and mentions DraftKings still has +160 available.

dogger pass (betting recommendation)

"for our last show in the studio i'll label this one a dogger pass dogger pass situation"

Bookie Beatdown

Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Apr 29, 2021 (2 days before fight)

Giga Chikadze

Daniel Levi picks Giga Chikadze to win, emphasizing that Chikadze is a superior striker with better range and footwork. He believes Cub Swanson's style of swinging big hooks plays into Chikadze's straight shots down the middle. Levi also notes that Swanson's recent win over Pineda is overrated and that Chikadze's cardio held up in his last fight.

"i'm gonna go with giga to land the harder shots the more impactful shots and i think he's gonna announce himself as a contender at 145 pounds"

Half the Battle

MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Apr 30, 2021 (1 day before fight)

Giga Chikadze

The host picks Giga Chikadze by decision, citing his striking advantage and reach. He expects Giga to fight safe and outpoint Swanson, who may look for takedowns. He notes that Swanson is a veteran but believes Giga's kicking game will be too much.

Giga Chikadze by decision at +170

"I like giga here it's crazy that the line is continuing to move towards the cub swanson side"

MMA Lock of the Night

Paul Shaughnessy Expert picked Apr 27, 2021 (4 days before fight)

Paul does not have a strong lean on this fight. He notes that Giga has been given favorable matchups and that Swanson has the ground game advantage, but he is not confident enough to make a pick. He mentions that the action is coming in on Swanson and that he can understand why, but he doesn't commit to a side.

"yeah not a great lean either"

Bookie Beatdown

The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Apr 25, 2021 (6 days before fight)

Giga Chikadze

The MMA Guru picks Giga Chikadze over Cub Swanson, citing Chikadze's size advantage, reach, and improving MMA skills. He notes that Swanson is a natural bantamweight and took damage in his last fight against Daniel Pineda. He predicts Chikadze will chop at Swanson's legs and jab his way to a 30-27 unanimous decision.

"i'm gonna pick giga chickety to shop at those legs land good shots and just have cubs cub swanson limping around for the entire fight"

THE MMA GURU

View all 13 fights

Vinicius Oliveira - Fight History

SCHED vs Giga Chikadze

UFC Fight Night: Kape vs. Horiguchi · Jun 20, 2026

LOSS vs Mario Bautista

Submission R2 4:46 · UFC Fight Night: Bautista vs. Oliveira · Feb 07, 2026

Totals

Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
Mario Bautista	0	15 of 27	55%	49 of 63	5 of 7	71%	1	0	5:47
Vinicius Oliveira	0	12 of 21	57%	18 of 27	0 of 1	0%	0	0	1:39

Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Ctrl
1	Mario Bautista	3 of 9	33%	22 of 29	1 of 2	50%	0	2:18
1	Vinicius Oliveira	6 of 8	75%	8 of 10	0 of 0	---	0	1:39
2	Mario Bautista	12 of 18	66%	27 of 34	4 of 5	80%	1	3:29
2	Vinicius Oliveira	6 of 13	46%	10 of 17	0 of 1	0%	0	0:00

Significant Strikes

Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
Mario Bautista	15 of 27	55%	10 of 20	5 of 6	0 of 1	6 of 12	0 of 2	9 of 13
Vinicius Oliveira	12 of 21	57%	3 of 10	3 of 5	6 of 6	9 of 18	3 of 3	0 of 0

Significant Strikes Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
1	Mario Bautista	3 of 9	33%	1 of 7	2 of 2	0 of 0	1 of 4	0 of 0	2 of 5
1	Vinicius Oliveira	6 of 8	75%	0 of 1	3 of 4	3 of 3	4 of 6	2 of 2	0 of 0
2	Mario Bautista	12 of 18	66%	9 of 13	3 of 4	0 of 1	5 of 8	0 of 2	7 of 8
2	Vinicius Oliveira	6 of 13	46%	3 of 9	0 of 1	3 of 3	5 of 12	1 of 1	0 of 0

Play-by-Play

View on Sherdog

Mario Bautista vs. Vinicius Oliveira
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Bautista (-185); Oliveira (+155)

Round 1
All eyes are on this bantamweight main attraction, with the UFC’s No. 9 Bautista (16-3, 10-3 UFC) putting his superior number on the line against the surging 11th-ranked Oliveira (23-3, 4-0 UFC). Whether a top-10 fighter is cemented or elevated, referee Herb Dean is on top of everything. He brings them together to the center of the cage, where the fighters calmly touch gloves.
Oliveira starts off with a front kick up the middle, only to be met with a body kick flying back. Oliveira chops at the front leg, working the calf a few times and dropping his hands to motion to someone outside the cage. Bautista swings and misses, allowing Oliveira to grab hold of him and clinch. Oh no. Here we go again. Oliveira presses heavily on the MMA Lab representative, thwarting Bautista’s initial escape attempts. Bautista manages to free himself from the grasp, but Oliveira is quick to re-engage with an attempt. They fall to the floor during a grappling exchange, and Oliveira is quicker on his feet and isolates Bautista’s right leg for a single. Bautista keeps his balance and slaps Oliveira upside the head a few times, and they spin around one another as Bautista follows through to drag the fight down and establish top control.
Oliveira hits his back and hunts for a leglock, and Bautista defends by twisting all the way around and climbing into half guard. The action slows to a crawl as Bautista smothers on top, with Oliveira locking him down with his arms hooked around his foe’s. When Bautista tries to posture up, Oliveira kicks him off. Bautista just misses with a leaping right hand, and he has an axe kick blocked. Bautista tries to move himself back into the guard, and Oliveira’s upkicks keep him honest. Bautista manages to score with a few punches to the body, but otherwise he stays out of harm until the buzzer.

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

Round 2
Bautista starts the round aggressively, taking the fight to the ground early. Oliveira climbs back up thanks in part to snagging his fingers in the fence, and he is admonished for it and hurled back down to the mat by the American. A mat return soon follows when Oliveira scoots upright. Bautista cannot keep him down, and when he backs off to find an angle back in, he walks into a left hand but still scores a right. Oliveira appears lackadaisical and sloppy, his hands by his waist as he prepares to defend another takedown shot. Oliveira lunges behind an inaccurate right, and Bautista corners him against the cage and goes to take him down.
Oliveira manages to get him down instead by catching a kick, only for Bautista to reverse him and wind up in the position the ended the previous round. The Brazilian’s upkicks are less hostile than before, so Bautista is able to get into his guard and transition fairly quickly to half guard. Oliveira still slowly manages to frame off the chest, recovering back to the full guard and closing it. Bautista opens it up with a few elbows, slashing them down and pushing through to half guard, the side and eventually a crucifix. Bautista jams down a number of elbows and thumping punches, and he switches things up with a sudden, unexpected kimura.
He cranks that submission in order to brilliantly take the back of his adversary, and he slips both hooks in and wraps up a rear-naked choke in the blink of an eye. The fight went from zero to 60 in a hurry, and Oliveira is in big, big trouble. After barely a second or two, Oliveira realizes his goose is cooked and frantically taps out before he goes out.
Just like that, Bautista has notched his first stoppage since 2023 and rebounds from a loss to Umar Nurmagomedov in a huge way. The victor lauds coach John Crouch for his grappling and jitz training to be able to pull off that thrilling grappling sequence that is best shown in slow-motion. The MMA Lab rep calls for a rematch with Cory Sandhagen when on the microphone, and that is one worth watching that could easily headline a Fight Night card. If that transpires, sign us up. Also, Sherdog will be in the building at UFC Houston in two weeks, so be sure to tune into our extra live coverage throughout the week. We will be there for it, and we hope you are too.

The Official Result
Mario Bautista def. Vinicius Oliveira R2 4:46 via Submission (Rear-Naked Choke)

Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Feb 1, 2026 (6 days before fight)

Mario Bautista

Angelo picks Mario Bautista, believing he is the better technical fighter with cleaner striking and better wrestling. He acknowledges Vinicius Oliveira's insane pace but thinks Bautista can match it and fight for 25 minutes. He notes that Bautista's last fight against Umar Nurmagomedov was close and impressive, and he expects Bautista to go dog for dog with Oliveira and come out on top.

"Mario Batista is going to be the pick. I think Mario can go dog for dog with Venicious and he's the better fighter."

We Want Picks

Big Brady Expert Confident picked Feb 1, 2026 (6 days before fight)

Mario Bautista

Big Brady picks Mario Bautista, citing his superior grappling and cardio. He notes that Vinicius Oliveira has shown vulnerability on the ground, as seen in his fight against Bernardo Sopai. Bautista hasn't used his grappling recently due to tough opponents, but Brady expects him to take Oliveira down and submit him in the third round.

by third round submission

"I'm going to take Mario Batista to win this fight. I'm going to say he wins this fight by third round submission."

DFS by the Numbers

Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Feb 4, 2026 (3 days before fight)

Vinicius Oliveira

Cody picks Vinicius Oliveira as an underdog, comparing him to Carlos Prates and Alex Pereira for his pressure and power. He argues Oliveira's constant forward pressure and size will overwhelm Bautista, who lacks one-shot power. Cody believes Oliveira's momentum and damage output will sway judges, especially in the Apex where damage is prioritized.

"I think I'm going to go the opposite end on Venicius Olivera... this guy's about as big as 135 pounds as you're possibly going to get."

Bookie Beatdown

Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Feb 5, 2026 (2 days before fight)

Mario Bautista

Connor agrees with Zane, citing Bautista's technical lockdown and ability to handle pressure. He compares Oliveira to Dricus du Plessis in terms of being a 'vibes fighter' who can overwhelm opponents, but believes Bautista's scrambling and experience against elite pressure (like Aldo) give him the edge. He notes Oliveira's tendency to get tired and be hittable.

Same odds discussion as Zane.

"I still have to lean in the direction of Batista as well."

MMA Vivisection

Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Feb 1, 2026 (6 days before fight)

Mario Bautista

Lucrative James picks Mario Bautista to win inside the distance, likely by submission in the championship rounds. He emphasizes Bautista's superior cardio and pace, especially in a five-round fight, and notes that Oliveira has been finished in all his losses. James believes Oliveira will gas out in rounds 4-5, allowing Bautista to take over and secure a finish.

under 4.5 rounds, Mario Bautista wins in round 4 or 5

"My prediction will be Mario Batista to get this one done in the championship rounds inside the distance, probably submission for the first time in Venicious Olivivera's career."

Lucrative MMA

MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Feb 3, 2026 (4 days before fight)

Mario Bautista

The host picks Bautista inside the distance, likely in round 4. He believes Bautista's fight IQ, cardio, and game planning will allow him to contain Oliveira's reckless aggression and take over as Oliveira gasses. He notes Bautista can match Oliveira's violence and has a cardio edge, and expects him to find a finish in the later rounds.

inside the distance

"So, give me Maru Bautista inside the distance."

MMA Lock of the Night

Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Feb 4, 2026 (3 days before fight)

Mario Bautista

Paul picks Mario Bautista, citing concerns about Oliveira's gas tank in a five-round fight. He notes Bautista's durability and ability to control the cage, similar to his fight against Jose Aldo. Paul expects Bautista to stick to a game plan and potentially win by decision, suggesting live betting on Bautista in later rounds.

over 2.5 rounds, fight goes the distance

"My concerns for Olive Vera here, obviously he's had quite the run... I do have concerns about his gas tank in a five round fight."

Bookie Beatdown

The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Feb 7, 2026 (fight day)

Mario Bautista

The host picks Mario Bautista over Vinicius Oliveira. He thinks Oliveira is a size bully with sloppy technique, and Bautista is equally big but technically superior. He notes Bautista's pace and pressure, and his performance against Ricky Simon was more impressive than Oliveira's. He predicts a 4-1 decision win for Bautista.

decision 4 rounds to 1

"I think he'll win a decision, five four rounds to one. A four rounds to one decision win for Mario Bautista."

THE MMA GURU

Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Feb 5, 2026 (2 days before fight)

Mario Bautista

Zane leans toward Bautista because of his proven ability to handle pressure fighters, as seen in his win over Jose Aldo. He notes that Oliveira is dangerous but reckless, often getting hurt in fights, and Bautista's scrambling and timing should allow him to capitalize. However, he acknowledges Oliveira's physicality and durability could make it a war.

Bautista opened at -140, currently -160; Oliveira opened at +120, currently +140. Zane thinks the line is fair and could go to -200.

"I still have to lean in the direction of Batista as well."

MMA Vivisection

WIN vs Kyler Phillips

Decision R3 5:00 · UFC 318: Holloway vs. Poirier 3 · Jul 19, 2025

Totals

Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
Kyler Phillips	0	49 of 151	32%	54 of 156	0 of 5	0%	0	0	0:09
Vinicius Oliveira	1	96 of 232	41%	102 of 238	1 of 4	25%	0	0	2:20

Per Round

Rd	Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Ctrl
1	Kyler Phillips	0	29 of 67	43%	29 of 67	0 of 1	0%	0:00
1	Vinicius Oliveira	0	22 of 69	31%	22 of 69	0 of 1	0%	0:03
2	Kyler Phillips	0	4 of 26	15%	9 of 31	0 of 3	0%	0:09
2	Vinicius Oliveira	1	41 of 81	50%	47 of 87	1 of 2	50%	2:17
3	Kyler Phillips	0	16 of 58	27%	16 of 58	0 of 1	0%	0:00
3	Vinicius Oliveira	0	33 of 82	40%	33 of 82	0 of 1	0%	0:00

Significant Strikes

Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
Kyler Phillips	49 of 151	32%	33 of 126	13 of 22	3 of 3	49 of 151	0 of 0	0 of 0
Vinicius Oliveira	96 of 232	41%	52 of 161	26 of 50	18 of 21	79 of 207	5 of 7	12 of 18

Significant Strikes Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
1	Kyler Phillips	29 of 67	43%	18 of 52	8 of 12	3 of 3	29 of 67	0 of 0	0 of 0
1	Vinicius Oliveira	22 of 69	31%	12 of 47	5 of 15	5 of 7	22 of 69	0 of 0	0 of 0
2	Kyler Phillips	4 of 26	15%	2 of 22	2 of 4	0 of 0	4 of 26	0 of 0	0 of 0
2	Vinicius Oliveira	41 of 81	50%	27 of 65	9 of 11	5 of 5	27 of 60	2 of 3	12 of 18
3	Kyler Phillips	16 of 58	27%	13 of 52	3 of 6	0 of 0	16 of 58	0 of 0	0 of 0
3	Vinicius Oliveira	33 of 82	40%	13 of 49	12 of 24	8 of 9	30 of 78	3 of 4	0 of 0

Play-by-Play

View on Sherdog

Vinicius Oliveira vs. Kyler Phillips
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Oliveira (-175), Phillips (+145)

Round 1
Wrapping up the unpaid portion of the event, two speedy bantamweights collide. While they are both ranked in the UFC’s top 15 at 135 pounds, the losing party may fall off on Monday or Tuesday. Phillips (12-3, 6-2 UFC) needs to get back in the win column, but to do so he has to outhustle heavy-handed Brazilian “LokDog” Oliveira (22-3, 3-0 UFC). The two will be joined in the Octagon by referee Chris Hill, and they opt against touching gloves while he watches on.
Oliveira says hello with a head kick rather than bumping gloves, and this fires up Phillips. Phillips strikes back with his own high kick and flurry of punches, hurting the Brazilian and keeping his defenses ready to stop the incoming takedown. Phillips hurts “LokDog” with another right hand, springing round side to side and pecking his foe with sharp jab and a body shot. Oliveira whiffs on a big left hook, and Phillips fires off a wheel kick that is too high and misses the target. Phillips’ right hands stagger Oliveira twice, and Oliveira has to shake it off but has his hands low. Oliveira walks Phillips down, absorbing single targeted strikes while not connecting on much power. “LokDog” gets off a front kick, and he takes a right hand on the temple. When Phillips misses on a punch, Oliveira tries to chase him down, but “The Matrix” is elusive as ever.
Oliveira drives a front kick that sounds like it ricocheted off the cup, but Phillips does not express concern and shoots in for a takedown. Oliveira staves it off and absorbs a few kicks to the midsection. Phillips is on his bouncing bike, avoiding the worst of the Brazilian’s right hands while not letting the kicks reach him either. Phillips goes toto the body and head, and Oliveira lines up a kick to the ribs. Phillips slips punches, lands his own and drives a knee to the chin that stuns Oliveira for a second. Oliveira shrugs and goes back to chasing Phillips with his hands low. Oliveira tosses out kicks from both legs, and he lowers himself down to hurl bungalows. Phillips takes the power cleanly and tries to keep him at bay with kicks, but Oliveira is starting to time and catch them. Oliveira kicks low, and Phillips jumps over it and springs away from a spinning back kick. Phillips scores a knee and falls over, and he gets back up and finds Oliveira chasing him with attacks. Phillips defends with his back to the wall as the round concludes.

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

Round 2
Phillips starts off the round with is own head kick to mirror what Oliveira did in the previous round, and he gets away from the wild kicks of his opponent that are feet away from his intended target. The elusive Phillips stays light on his heels, only for Oliveira to wind up a right hand that sends him flying. “The Matrix” gets back up, takes another huge right hand and then turns away and gets kicked in the face. Oliveira continues to bombard Phillips with attacks, bowling him over and finding himself lording over Phillips with standing-to-ground punches. Oliveira lowers himself in the guard, and he positions himself flat on his adversary. Oliveira briefly flirts with an arm-triangle choke until sitting up to adjust his position, and Phillips kicks him off in the chest and stands back up. Oliveira tries to hold him down or wrap up a sub, but Phillips is free and out of danger.
Oliveira tries to bring back the danger, clubbing Phillips with looping punches including a left hand that stings Phillips again. Phillips works his way back to his feet, and Oliveira stands in front of him, hands down, taking deep breaths. The Brazilian explodes back into his offense, tagging Phillips with punches that “The Matrix” would have evaded previously. He ducks a spinning wheel kick and tags Phillips with three punches down the forward bow. Oliveira kicks low and swings high, and when Phillips hits him back, he does not budge. “LokDog” tries to catch the kick, chest heaving, and he fights off a takedown and trips Philips up to put him on his back. Oliveira is pushed off when landing some ground strikes, but he hurls himself back into top position. The round ends with Oliveira riding out this position.

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
Oliveira motions to the crowd to pump them up, and bows at his opponent. They resume with five minutes left to battle it out, and Oliveira starts by walking Phillips down. Phillips remains on his bike, kicking and probing with single strikes while trying to avoid the booming blows aimed at his face. Oliveira dodges a wheel kick and plods forward, slamming his shin on Phillips’ calf and drawing a short limp from him. Phillips keeps moving while Oliveira is going after him, with his head kick blocked before Oliveira gets to him and belts him in the face with three punches. “LokDog” hammers the front leg again, takes a body shot and misses on his counters. They both let go with big right hands, and Oliveira’s calf kick does further damage. Oliveira misses on a few punches and a high kick, while Phillips is jabbing aplenty. Phillips scores a body kick, and Oliveira punches him in the chest back. Once more, the Brazilian attacks the front leg, and movement from Phillips is starting to dwindle.
As Phillips tries to push his way forward, Oliveira drills him with a close-range spinning back kick to the chest. Oliveira races forward behind looping hooks, and his spinning wheel kick misses the mark. Phillips kicks him in the face, and Oliveira still keeps his hands down and shrugs off anything that catches him. Oliveira tries to connect with three big punches, and he ducks down and shoulder-checks his adversary. Phillips tries to back him off with hooks, and Oliveira ducks, moves and kicks him. The Brazilian dodges, weaves, connects and shoots for a takedown. Phillips shuts the latter down but eats a hard kick on the way out. Oliveira nods when he gets elbowed in the face, because he has a plan: punch Phillips in the face. The plan succeeds. Again and again. Phillips keeps backpedaling but is featuring his jab more than usual, and he mixes in a few side kicks to not let “LokDog” get to him. Oliveira bull-rushes him with punches, tackles Phillips to the mat and is bounced back to his feet. He proceeds to chase Phillips around the cage until time expires.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Oliveira (29-28 Oliveira)
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Oliveira (29-28 Oliveira)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Oliveira (29-28 Oliveira)

The Official Result
Vinicius Oliveira def. Kyler Phillips via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jul 13, 2025 (6 days before fight)

Vinicius Oliveira

Angelo picks Vinicius Oliveira, calling him a dog who has beaten better competition than Kyler Phillips. He notes Oliveira's aggression, power, and takedown defense. He is surprised by the -180 line and considers it a gift, suggesting it could be parlayed.

Says you could parlay him and get him at almost 2 to 1.

"Venicious Olivera is the pick. I honestly think you could parlay him and you're going to get him at almost 2 to1."

We Want Picks

Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Jul 15, 2025 (4 days before fight)

Vinicius Oliveira

Big Brady hesitantly picks Vinicius Oliveira due to Kyler Phillips' poor cardio. He believes Phillips wins the first round dominantly but fades, allowing Oliveira to take over in later rounds. He predicts a split decision for Oliveira, though he dislikes the pick.

Live bet Oliveira if Phillips wins early; Oliveira by split decision

"I think I'm going to take Olive here. I really don't like the pick at all."

DFS by the Numbers

MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Jul 16, 2025 (3 days before fight)

Vinicius Oliveira

The host sees this as a perfect matchup for Oliveira to showcase dominance, citing his performances against Ricky Simon and Said Nurmagomedov. He expects Oliveira to shut down Phillips's grappling and striking and produce a round three knockout.

round three knockout

"I expect him to be able to shut down Phillips's grappling game and striking game and eventually pull away with this matchup in the second and third rounds producing a round three knockout."

MMA Lock of the Night

The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jul 16, 2025 (3 days before fight)

Vinicius Oliveira

The MMA Guru picks Vinicius Oliveira over Kyler Phillips, predicting a third-round finish. He criticizes Phillips' inability to adjust and his tendency to fade in later rounds, as seen against Rob Font and Howie PA. Oliveira is praised for his pace, durability, and pressure, having schooled Ricky Simon and broken Said Nurmagomedov. The Guru believes Oliveira will break Phillips down and finish him, comparing the matchup to Oliveira's win over Nurmagomedov.

"I'm gonna go with Venicious Soliva."

THE MMA GURU

WIN vs Said Nurmagomedov

Decision R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Adesanya vs. Imavov · Feb 01, 2025

Totals

Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
Said Nurmagomedov	0	38 of 79	48%	69 of 111	1 of 9	11%	0	0	0:58
Vinicius Oliveira	0	43 of 94	45%	68 of 125	3 of 5	60%	1	0	7:12

Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Ctrl
1	Said Nurmagomedov	12 of 21	57%	28 of 37	1 of 1	100%	0	0:09
1	Vinicius Oliveira	3 of 14	21%	5 of 16	2 of 4	50%	0	2:44
2	Said Nurmagomedov	13 of 38	34%	21 of 46	0 of 5	0%	0	0:49
2	Vinicius Oliveira	21 of 45	46%	26 of 51	1 of 1	100%	0	0:54
3	Said Nurmagomedov	13 of 20	65%	20 of 28	0 of 3	0%	0	0:00
3	Vinicius Oliveira	19 of 35	54%	37 of 58	0 of 0	---	1	3:34

Significant Strikes

Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
Said Nurmagomedov	38 of 79	48%	18 of 54	13 of 17	7 of 8	37 of 76	1 of 3	0 of 0
Vinicius Oliveira	43 of 94	45%	24 of 63	11 of 18	8 of 13	31 of 74	2 of 5	10 of 15

Significant Strikes Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
1	Said Nurmagomedov	12 of 21	57%	6 of 14	2 of 3	4 of 4	11 of 20	1 of 1	0 of 0
1	Vinicius Oliveira	3 of 14	21%	2 of 9	1 of 2	0 of 3	3 of 12	0 of 0	0 of 2
2	Said Nurmagomedov	13 of 38	34%	3 of 25	7 of 9	3 of 4	13 of 36	0 of 2	0 of 0
2	Vinicius Oliveira	21 of 45	46%	8 of 25	7 of 13	6 of 7	19 of 40	2 of 5	0 of 0
3	Said Nurmagomedov	13 of 20	65%	9 of 15	4 of 5	0 of 0	13 of 20	0 of 0	0 of 0
3	Vinicius Oliveira	19 of 35	54%	14 of 29	3 of 3	2 of 3	9 of 22	0 of 0	10 of 13

Play-by-Play

View on Sherdog

Said Nurmagomedov vs. Vinicius Oliveira

Round 1
They move the line forward in the 135-pound weight class, as Nurmagomedov (18-3, 7-2 UFC) and Oliveira (21-3, 2-0 UFC) meet in a pivotal bantamweight attraction. Hatley officiates. Oliveira steps forward, eats a leg kick and uncorks a left hook. Nurmagomedov stays light on his feet and sends a kick glancing off the Brazilian’s forehead. A spinning back kick to the body sends Oliveira to the canvas. He gets to his feet, only to absorb a stout low kick. Nurmagomedov threatens a guillotine in a scramble, then separates. Another powerful low leg kick from the Russian. Oliveira ducks a spinning backfist. Nurmagomedov briefly secures a takedown, but Oliveira gets back to his feet and drives forward in the clinch. Midway through the round. Oliveira scores with knees to the legs. Inadvertent eye poke from the Brazilian results in a pause. Hatley restarts it. Slapping head kick lands from Nurmagomedov. Chopping overhand right from Nurmagomedov misses and an accidental head butt knocks Oliveira off-balance. He gets back to his feet, eats a flying knee and manages to score a takedown. Oliveira navigates the guard and scores with ground-and-pound. Nurmagomedov gets back to his feet. The round ends in the clinch.

Sherdog Scores
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Nurmegomedov
Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 Oliveira
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Nurmagomedov

Round 2
Oliveira steps forward, and they trade body kicks. Nurmagomedov throw a kick high, only to get blocked. Leg kick from the Russian, who ducks in, shoot on the hips and hunts a takedown. Oliveira denies his efforts. A clinch battle ensues. Knee up the middle on the break from Nurmagomedov. Oliveira presses the issue behind punches and executes a takedown. Nurmagomedov gets back to his feet without much issues and gets his kicks in gear in the center of the cage. Right hand over the top from the Russian draws a thumbs up from Oliveira. Nurmagomedov complains about an eye poke, leaves his guard down and eats a few punches for his troubles. He circles behind Oliveira, resets and secures a brief takedown. Output an issue for Nurmagomedov, who appears to be tiring. Oliveira moves forward behind punches from both hands and lands a glancing uppercut, then misses on a wild spinning backfist. Weary punches from both men to end the frame.

Sherdog Scores
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Oliveira
Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 Oliveira
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Oliveira

Round 3
Anyone’s fight with five minutes to go. Oliveira presses forward behind a body kick and punches. Nurmagomedov slips throwing a kick. Oliveira dives in top position and works in full guard. He scores with short punches. Nurmagomedov scrambles from underneath. Oliveira draws a warning for grabbing the cage and another for strikes to the back of the head. He powers into half guard and briefly achieves full mount. Nurmagomedov escapes and snatches a single-leg. Oliveira sprawls and circles, then locks in a brabo choke. He bails and throws elbows instead. Ninety seconds left. Oliveira connects with a knee to the body on the kneeling Nurmagomedov. The momentum has certainly shifted. Nurmagomedov gets back to his feet but looks gassed. His movements are woefully labored. Oliveira doubles up on right hooks and connects with a side kick to the body. Nurmagomedov scores with a spinning backfist, but his opponent appears unmoved. Oliveira sprawls on a takedown attempt from the Russian and wheels behind him with 30 seconds remaining. Nurmagomedov clings to a single-leg but has neither the energy nor wherewithal to do anything with it.

Sherdog Scores
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Oliveira (29-28 Oliveira)
Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 Oliveira (30-27 Oliveira)
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Oliveira (29-28 Oliveira)

The Official Result
Vinicius Oliveira def. Said Nurmagomedov—Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jan 26, 2025 (6 days before fight)

Vinicius Oliveira

Angelo picks Vinicius Oliveira as an underdog, noting his length, durability, and creativity. He believes Oliveira's chaotic style and takedown defense (defended 9 takedowns against Ricky Simon) will trouble Said Nurmagomedov. He worries that Oliveira's recklessness could lead to a submission, but thinks his aggression and power will be enough.

"I'm picking venicius here I picked him a few weeks ago when he was a plus 225 underdog now he's a plus 145 Underdog"

We Want Picks

Big Brady Expert Confident picked Jan 27, 2025 (5 days before fight)

Said Nurmagomedov

Big Brady is impressed with Said Nurmagomedov's striking and submission game. He thinks Vinicius Oliveira is hitable and has been finished in all his losses. Brady predicts Nurmagomedov will catch Oliveira with a spinning attack or submit him, possibly via a club-and-sub. He calls Nurmagomedov a finisher and expects a second-round submission.

second round submission

"I like nag medov here I'll say he wins by I'll say I'll say submission maybe like a club and sub for nag mov here I I'll say nagan mov second round sub"

DFS by the Numbers

Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Jan 30, 2025 (2 days before fight)

Said Nurmagomedov

Connor picks Nurmagomedov, believing his well-rounded game and wrestling will overcome Oliveira's wild aggression. He notes that Oliveira is a formless bully who cuts a lot of weight, but Nurmagomedov has the tools to neutralize him and find submissions. However, he acknowledges that Oliveira's chaotic style could make the fight uncomfortable and that Nurmagomedov has struggled with physical pressure in the past.

"I still think he's so good and so well-rounded. He should just have free opportunities to hit all of it. Yeah. And should be able to. And the wrestling. Get to yeah, take him down, get him in a position …"

MMA Vivisection

Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Jan 30, 2025 (2 days before fight)

Vinicius Oliveira

James picks Oliveira to win, citing Nurmagomedov's poor cardio and tendency to gas out, as seen in recent fights. He believes Oliveira's pressure, size, and strength will overwhelm Nurmagomedov in later rounds. He notes Nurmagomedov's submission threat (ninja choke) but thinks Oliveira can survive and win by decision or late knockout. He sees Oliveira's trajectory rising while Nurmagomedov's is declining.

Oliveira by decision is implied; mentions knockout upside.

"I'm going to side with Olivier on this one I really am I think Venus is going to win the fight"

Lucrative MMA

MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Jan 30, 2025 (2 days before fight)

Vinicius Oliveira

Oliveira's output and volume will cause Nurmagomedov trouble, as Nurmagomedov is more reliant on finishes. If he can't get Oliveira out of there early, he will struggle with the volume coming back. Oliveira is expected to win on the scorecards.

"I believe the output and volume of Oliveira will cause Nurmagomedov a lot of trouble... look for Oliveira to win this fight on the scorecards."

MMA Lock of the Night

The MMA Guru Expert Hesitant picked Jan 28, 2025 (4 days before fight)

Said Nurmagomedov

The MMA Guru picks Said Nurmagomedov in a close fight. He notes Oliveira is rangy and well-rounded, but Nurmagomedov has finishing potential and experience. He worries about Nurmagomedov's performance against Jonathan Martinez but believes he can win the first two rounds and edge a decision. He mentions Oliveira's short-notice loss to Bernardo Sopaj as a factor.

"I'll go say n medov over Venicia oliv you know... I'm G to go sayov over visha Oliva"

THE MMA GURU

Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Jan 30, 2025 (2 days before fight)

Said Nurmagomedov

Zane picks Nurmagomedov, agreeing that his technical edge and wrestling should prevail. He notes that Oliveira's lack of defense and tendency to scramble hard will give Nurmagomedov opportunities. However, Zane warns that Oliveira's size and pace could cause problems, and that Nurmagomedov has a history of slowing down under physical pressure. He still sees Nurmagomedov as the rightful favorite.

MMA Vivisection

WIN vs Ricky Simón

DEC R3 5:00 · UFC 303: Pereira vs. Prochazka 2 · Jun 29, 2024

Play-by-Play

View on Sherdog

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)

WIN vs Benardo Sopaj

KO (flying knee) R3 4:41 · UFC Fight Night: Rozenstruik vs. Gaziev · Mar 02, 2024

Totals

Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
Vinicius Oliveira	1	67 of 144	46%	88 of 170	2 of 4	50%	0	0	1:37
Benardo Sopaj	0	45 of 86	52%	92 of 146	3 of 4	75%	0	0	4:28

Per Round

Rd	Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Ctrl
1	Vinicius Oliveira	0	7 of 31	22%	9 of 34	0 of 0	---	0:00
1	Benardo Sopaj	0	14 of 26	53%	33 of 48	2 of 2	100%	1:45
2	Vinicius Oliveira	0	17 of 31	54%	36 of 54	2 of 3	66%	1:36
2	Benardo Sopaj	0	18 of 24	75%	46 of 62	1 of 2	50%	2:43
3	Vinicius Oliveira	1	43 of 82	52%	43 of 82	0 of 1	0%	0:01
3	Benardo Sopaj	0	13 of 36	36%	13 of 36	0 of 0	---	0:00

Significant Strikes

Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
Vinicius Oliveira	67 of 144	46%	39 of 91	11 of 20	17 of 33	49 of 112	3 of 13	15 of 19
Benardo Sopaj	45 of 86	52%	42 of 81	1 of 3	2 of 2	21 of 55	0 of 2	24 of 29

Significant Strikes Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
1	Vinicius Oliveira	7 of 31	22%	1 of 12	2 of 5	4 of 14	7 of 29	0 of 2	0 of 0
1	Benardo Sopaj	14 of 26	53%	12 of 22	0 of 2	2 of 2	6 of 17	0 of 0	8 of 9
2	Vinicius Oliveira	17 of 31	54%	14 of 25	3 of 5	0 of 1	0 of 5	2 of 7	15 of 19
2	Benardo Sopaj	18 of 24	75%	17 of 23	1 of 1	0 of 0	2 of 3	0 of 1	16 of 20
3	Vinicius Oliveira	43 of 82	52%	24 of 54	6 of 10	13 of 18	42 of 78	1 of 4	0 of 0
3	Benardo Sopaj	13 of 36	36%	13 of 36	0 of 0	0 of 0	13 of 35	0 of 1	0 of 0

Play-by-Play

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Vinicius Oliveira vs. Bernardo Sopai
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: N/A

Round 1
It’s back-to-back 135-pound contests of Zahabi-Basharat and now Oliveira (19-3, 0-0 UFC) vs. Sopai (11-2, 0-0 UFC), with this pairing between UFC debutants. Both fighters do not like to involve the judges often, with “Lok Dog” posting a finish rate of 89%, and Albania’s Sopai countering with 91%. While the final bell might not play a factor, referee Keith Peterson almost certainly will before it is all said and done. Ahead of the action, there is a no-nonsense fist bump to commence this short-notice contest. Oliveira introduces himself with a rangy body kick, and he stalks forward with a sweeping leg kick. Sopai replies with a high kick that whizzes past his foe’s head, and Oliveira kicks him on the calf two more times. Oliveira aims a side kick to the knee, and keeps is guard up to defend from another head kick. The two crash together, and their excitement causes them to flail madly and miss wide on both sides. Oliveira goes to chase after his opponent, and Sopai chops him down with an inside low kick. Oliveira winds up with a power punch, and Sopai gets him back with another kick. Oliveira spins his man around with a leg kick, and Sopai tries and fails to wing a right hand when he spins about. Oliveira chips away with his calf kicks, keeping a safe range from the lunging Sopai. Oliveira spins for a wheel kick, and Sopai intercepts him and tackles him to the canvas. Sopai jumps to side control, and Oliveira counters with a heel hook attempt. Sopai lowers himself down to thwart the submission setup, and he settles down inside of the Brazilian’s guard. Oliveira throws up an armbar to threaten from his back, and Sopai backs off and lets them stand back up. Sopai chases after the Brazilian and lays into him with a huge right hand, and Oliveira responds with a head kick and a hard right hand to follow. Sopai winds up on power punches, blocks a head kick and scoots back to dodge a leg kick. Oliveira aims a kick that slaps into the guard, and Sopai chops his lead leg with a kick before charging to land a takedown. Sopai lands in full mount, but Oliveira bucks him back to the guard. Oliveira hacks with elbows from his back and kicks Sopai off of him, but Sopai lowers himself and smacks Oliveira in the face several times until the horn stops the round.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Sopai
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Sopai
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Sopai

Round 2
The bantamweights clap hands to re-engage, and Oliveira starts off with a leg kick. Sopai aggressively hunts for a takedown, and when Oliveira counters with a trip, Sopai is able to bowl his man over and set him down. Oliveira turns to his side and then gives up his back, and Sopai wraps a hook around the waist and starts slamming the Brazilian in the side of the head with right hands. Sopai clobbers his fading opponent with punches and occasional elbows, and Peterson looks closely at the undefended strikes adding up. Oliveira keeps turning, and he gets flattened out briefly as Sopai hammers him with ground-and-pound. Sopai allows Oliveira to turn all the way around and follows him every step of the way, claiming Oliveira’s back once more and slamming down fierce right hands. Sopai sits up and rides Oliveira’s back like a professional bull rider, and he beats on Oliveira with several more right hands. Oliveira stands up with Sopai still on his back, and Sopai threatens with a rear-naked choke when he sees the opening. Oliveira grabs hold of one arm and slings Sopai over, and he chucks Sopai on his back. Oliveira unleashes a fury of power strikes, hurting Sopai and stepping into a partial mount until Sopai muscles his way back to his feet. Oliveira wrenches him away from the wall and climbs into top position with about a minute to go, and he drives down standing-to-ground punches and elbows that do some serious damage. Oliveira flattens himself down to grab hold of an arm-triangle choke, and he drives down punches and elbows until Sopai kicks him off. Sopai stands back up and walks into a head kick, and Oliveira races after him throwing hands. Sopai retaliates with a big punch, and he gets blasted with a head kick as he turns away before the round ends. When the round does conclude, Sopai puts his hands on his waist, and he appears totally exhausted.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Oliveira
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Oliveira
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Oliveira

Round 3
The fighters touch ‘em up to start the last round, and Oliveira walks Sopai down. When Sopai misses with a punch, Oliveira flails with several punches and a leg kick that does connect. Oliveira’s wild offense largely misses, and Sopai appears to still be catching his wind, as he only offers an occasional single strike. Oliveira charges forward with a right hand, and Sopai’s legs are barely beneath him as he partially absorbs a high kick. Oliveira drills him with two right hooks in rapid succession, and Sopai takes a sharp exhale in response. Oliveira meanders forward, no concern for his physical well-being, and he throws everything he has into every one of his strikes. Sopai allows most of them to soar past him, but the ones that do connect hurt him. Oliveira lands a few leg kicks as well, and he turns away to his corner and then lances Sopai with a few straight punches. Sopai is sucking wind as he tries to give something back, but Oliveira’s offense forces him to backpedal constantly. Oliveira winds up with a fierce right hand, and Sopai staggers back to the wall. Oliveira follows it with a leg kick, and he dings Sopai with another right. Oliveira loads up on power right hands and sweeping leg kicks, and Sopai is displaying his toughness but is getting knocked around the cage. Oliviera lands yet another big right hand, and Sopai bounces off the cage wall and offers back a single jab. Oliveira shoots down for a takedown, and when that fails, he swings inaccurately. Sopai reaches him with a swiping left hook, and Oliveira chops at his leg and belts him with a left hand that sends Sopai staggering back. Sopai turns away, his hands down, and the Brazilian sees his opening.
Oliveira sprints at his opponent, leaping in the air with and colliding in Sopai’s chin with about as clean of a flying knee as anyone will ever see. Sopai collapses lifelessly to the mat like a puppet whose strings have been cut, and Oliveira strides off, knowing there is nothing more he needs to do today but sign the check for his post-fight bonus.
Chalk this up as an immediate “Knockout of the Year” frontrunner, with the brutal flying knee to conclude the thrilling battle. Thankfully, Sopai eventually regains his senses, but he needs to be carried out of the Octagon from all the damage he sustained after nearly 15 minutes of ridiculous action and violence.

The Official Result
Vinicius Oliveira def. Bernardo Sopai R3 4:41 via KO (Flying Knee)

Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Feb 25, 2024 (6 days before fight)

Vinicius Oliveira

Angelo picks Vinicius Oliveira, expecting him to bring forward pressure and aggression. He notes that Oliveira is sloppy but dangerous, while Benardo Sopaj is a patient, boring striker. He thinks Oliveira will win and the fight will not go the distance.

Fight does not go the distance

"olivea should win this fight but he is hitable he is wide open so Yannis could sneak something out with the superior technique I'm going olivea though I think this fight does not go the distance"

We Want Picks

Cody Saftic Expert Hesitant picked Feb 28, 2024 (3 days before fight)

Vinicius Oliveira

Cody picks Oliveira but is hesitant, noting the fight was just announced. He mentions Oliveira's solid wins and finishing ability, but also his questionable durability. He notes Sopaj is undersized and on short notice. Cody says he would have bet Oliveira at -150 but now at even money it's more appealing, though he needs to see weigh-ins.

Bookie Beatdown

Paul Shaughnessy Expert Hesitant picked Feb 28, 2024 (3 days before fight)

Vinicius Oliveira

Paul tentatively picks Oliveira, noting he has no strong opinion due to the fight being added late. He mentions Oliveira's size advantage and leg kicks as key factors. He acknowledges Sopaj is a young prospect but undersized. Paul says he needs to do more research and let the line settle before feeling confident.

"I'm going to go with Venus for the time being... do I feel great about it no do I want to tape study this thing for a lot longer than than I probably have yeah sure"

Bookie Beatdown

Giga Chikadze

Vinicius Oliveira

Career Averages - Giga Chikadze

Career Averages - Vinicius Oliveira

Giga Chikadze - Fight History

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