Liam Lindsay


Former UFC Featherweight Champion Ilia Topuria and his coach Jorge Clement have parted ways professionally. Topuria, who holds an undefeated record of 16-0, has trained under Clement since he was fifteen years old.

## Why They Split

Clement confirmed the news in an interview with Submission Radio, sharing mixed emotions. Clement says that the split was mutual and friendly but sudden, with Topuria moving to Madrid to train in his environment. Jorge Clement expressed that he was saddened due to their long journey together but takes pride in Topuria's development since joining the UFC in 2020, where he made his debut vs. Youssef Zalal.

## Topuria's Future Plans

Despite the separation, Clement will continue to root for his former student and sees potential high-stakes matchups for Topuria against Islam Makhachev and eventually Paddy Pimblett. He also predicted that Ilia Topuria will capture the UFC Lightweight title against Charles Oliveira at UFC 317, and he'll win it via knockout.

What do you make of this move just a month away from Ilia Topuria's biggest career fight? As a member of the Verdict Community, let us know with a comment down below.


Ilia Topuria Ends 13-Year Journey with  Coach Jorge Climent

Douglas Vegas Bets

The UFC heads to Azerbaijan for the first time this weekend as former Light Heavyweight Champion Jamahal Hill takes on Khalil Rountree Jr. in the main event from the Baku Crystal Hall in Baku, Azerbaijan. I went over every fight on the card to give my predictions, including my Underdog Best Bet of the Week, so let's get into it.

**Odds provided by DuelBits accurate as of 6/16/2025**

## Jamahal Hill +128 vs. Khalil Rountree -156

Light Heavyweights are looking to get their names back into the title picture square off in this big main event. Jamahal Hill is a big puncher who throws a lot of offense with little regard for defense, which has cost him in recent fights but has also helped him dominate opponents when he gets ahead early or lands a finishing blow. Khalil Rountree is a violent striker with solid power and somewhat low volume, coming in off a war with Alex Pereira, where he took a lot of damage but also showcased his skills.

I love Hill in this spot because he is the much higher-volume guy with more five-round experience and success fighting top-level competition, along with having a solid reach advantage. With that, Jamahal Hill Moneyline is this week's Underdog Best Bet of the Week.

Prediction: Hill by 1st Round KO (Best Bet)

## Rafael Fiziev -109 vs. Ignacio Bahamondes -112

Finishers face off in this electric Lightweight co-main event. Rafael Fiziev is a lightning-fast striker with a dangerous arsenal of weapons; however, his cardio has consistently been a problem, as he often struggles when fights reach the third round. Ignacio Bahamondes is a tall kickboxer who comes in having finished his last three opponents in the first round, showcasing both knockout and submission skills early, although cardio is not a concern, as evidenced by his ability to push the pace, as seen in his late finish against Roosevelt Roberts.

I like Bahamondes in this one, as he has a size advantage, better cardio, and a more dangerous ground game, while Fiziev is turning around rather quickly after taking a lot of damage against Justin Gaethje.

Prediction: Bahamondes by Decision

## Curtis Blaydes -294 vs. Rizvan Kuniev +225

This matchup is now booked for the third time at Heavyweight as these two look to finally settle things in the octagon. Curtis Blaydes is a very strong wrestler with solid boxing, although his durability has cost him several times when he has faced powerful opponents like Tom Aspinall, Derrick Lewis, and Sergei Pavlovich. Rizvan Kuniev is a decent wrestler who makes his debut here following an impressive run outside of the promotion, including a win over former PFL champ Renan Ferreira, which was later overturned to a no-contest.

I'll pick Blaydes here as he has proven to be a top contender in the division, having only lost to the biggest punchers in the sport, which I don't believe Kuniev is.

Prediction: Blaydes by 3rd Round TKO

## Myktybek Orolbai -169 vs. Tofiq Musayev +138

Exciting Lightweights collide in this can't-miss matchup. Myktykbek Orolbai is a durable and well-rounded fighter who pushes a hard pace and has shown he can hurt opponents on the feet and on the ground, although his striking defense isn't great, often leaving him open to big shots. Tofiq Musayev makes his UFC debut here as a dangerous knockout puncher whose last five fights have all ended inside the distance, showcasing his powerful striking, although he can be low-output looking for big shots.

I lean towards Orolbai, as he is going to be pushing the pace, has the grappling advantage, and has never been finished. However, his defense against Musayev's power gives me hesitation in picking this one.

Prediction: Orolbai by 2nd Round Submission

## Nazim Sadykhov -435 vs. Nikolas Motta +330

Dangerous finishers are pitted against one another in this fun, Lightweight clash. Nazim Sadykhov is an extremely durable and powerful fighter with hard-hitting striking that causes visible damage to his opponents and a slick submission game that he used to finish Terrance McKinney. Nikolas Motta is a tough veteran with solid power in his hands, as he showed in his big upset win over Tom Nolan last year, where he finished him in the first round.

Sadykhov is likely to secure another finish in this one, as it is a relative step down from his previous competition, and he has a clear advantage on the ground while also being the more durable and powerful striker.

Prediction: Sadykhov by 3rd Round Submission

## Muhammad Naimov -227 vs. Bogdan Grad +180

Featherweights open the main card with this fun matchup. Muhammad Naimov is a stocky fighter with powerful punches, which has helped him win four of his first five UFC fights, including an impressive win over Nathaniel Wood. Bogdan Grad is a gritty and dangerous striker who weathered an early storm to take over and get the finish in his debut against Lucas Alexander.

I'm picking Naimov here as he is slightly better in every area, but mostly in terms of punching power and durability, which I believe will lead to a knockout victory.

Prediction: Naimov by 2nd Round TKO

## Seokhyeon Ko +400 vs. Oban Elliott -588

After a late swap of opponents, these Welterweights will square off in the featured prelim. Seokhyeon Ko debuts off Dana White's Contender Series, where he showed solid boxing skills early and some wrestling late, although he has been finished by several regional opponents, which is concerning. Oban Elliott looks to keep rolling here as he comes into this one, having won his first three UFC fights, including an impressive finish last time out where he became the first man to knockout Bassil Hafez.

At these odds, I have to go with Ko, as Oban Elliott hasn't shown me anything to indicate he is worth this kind of price tag, given that he has also been hurt and finished by lower-level opposition before the UFC, and Ko has good hands leading me to believe he is a very live dog here.

Prediction: Ko by 2nd Round TKO

## Ismail Naurdiev +160 vs. Jun Yong Park -200

Middleweight veterans looking to build momentum are matched up in this one. Ismail Naurdiev continues his second stint with the UFC here after getting a win over Bruno Silva his last time out, where he showed an aggressive mix of kicks and wrestling to grind out the win. Jun Yong Park is a well-rounded fighter who has proven his ability to compete with high-level opponents, such as Brad Tavares, and finish lower-level competition, as evidenced by his recent run of three straight submissions.

I've got Park in this one, as he has proven himself to be a level higher and has a significant grappling advantage.

Prediction: Park by 3rd Round TKO

## Darya Zheleznyakova +205 vs. Melissa Mullins -263

Bantamweights who fought several years ago outside of the UFC will now compete here again on the biggest stage. Darya Zheleznyakova is a good kickboxer who had a lot of striking success early in the first fight, although her grappling remains an issue, as she lost her UFC debut by first-round submission. Melissa Mullins is a grappler with a strong top game that has helped her win two of her first three UFC fights, including a ground-and-pound finish in her last outing, although her striking defense has been an issue.

The first fight didn't go her way, but at these odds, I'll take Zheleznyakova as she proved to have a massive advantage in the striking the first time these two fought, and if Mullins doesn't get the takedown early again, she could get finished this time around.

Prediction: Zheleznyakova by 1st Round TKO

## Irina Alekseeva -270 vs. Klaudia Sygula +210

Bantamweights looking to bounce back from losses square off in this prelim matchup. Irina Alekseeva is a solid grappler with a judo base and a tricky submission game, which she showed in her debut win over Stephanie Egger, where she submitted her in the first round. Klaudia Sygula is a finisher with some submission skills and several knockouts on her resume, although when facing any decent opposition, she has struggled badly, having been finished on the ground in both her losses.

I'll go with Alekseeva to utilize her grappling to dominate this matchup, as Sygula has shown she can't compete with skilled grapplers.

Prediction: Alekseeva by 1st Round Submission

## Tagir Ulanbekov -370 vs. Azat Maksum +275

Short-notice replacement steps in for this one at Flyweight. Tagir Ulanbekov is a big and well-rounded fighter for the division, coming in having won three straight, including an impressive performance against previously unbeaten Clayton Carpenter. Azat Maksum is a dangerous finisher who showed his power early last time out with a big knockdown against Charles Johnson before being overwhelmed with volume in the later rounds.

Ulanbekov should get the win here, as he has the potential to compete with the best in the division and will have the advantage wherever the fight goes in this matchup.

Prediction: Ulanbekov by Decision

## Mohammed Usman -172 vs. Hamdy Abdelwahab +140

Heavyweights open the card in this physically massive matchup. Mohammed Usman is a strong wrestler who can maintain a low volume but can also take rounds with a heavy top game or land big shots, as he did to finish Zac Pauga. Hamdy Abdelwahab is a stocky fighter with decent grappling skills and some power in his hands, although he is very inexperienced, and this inexperience is evident, especially later in fights.

I lean towards Usman here as he is the more experienced fighter who has the wrestling to match Abdelwahab and has shown the ability to find and attack his path to victory in matchups like his fight with Junior Tafa.

Prediction: Usman by Decision

UFC Fight Night: Hill vs. Rountree Odds Breakdown

UFC Fight Night Usman vs. Buckley is live from the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. Follow along with the results as they happen below throughout the night.

## Prelims

## Flyweight Bout: Jamey-Lyn Horth vs. Vanessa Demopoulos

**Result:** Jamey-Lyn Horth def. Vanessa Demopoulos via Decision (Unanimous) (30-27, 30-27, 30-27) - Round 3, 5:00

## Welterweight Bout: Phil Rowe vs. Ange Loosa

**Result:** Phil Rowe def. Ange Loosa via TKO (Punches) - Round 3, 4:03

## Bantamweight Bout: Ricky Simon vs. Cameron Smotherman

**Result:** Ricky Simon def. Cameron Smotherman via Decision (Unanimous) (30-27, 30-27, 29-28) - Round 3, 5:00

## Flyweight Bout: Cody Durden vs. Jose Ochoa

**Result:** Jose Ochoa def. Cody Durden via KO (Punches) - Round 2, 0:11

## Bantamweight Bout: Malcolm Wellmaker vs. Kris Moutinho

**Result:** Malcolm Wellmaker def. Kris Moutinho via KO (Left Hook) - Round 1, 2:37

## Welterweight Bout: Michael Chiesa vs. Court McGee

**Result:** Michael Chiesa def. Court McGee via Decision (Unanimous) (30-27, 30-27, 29-28) - Round 3, 5:00

## Light Heavyweight Bout: Paul Craig vs. Rodolfo Bellato

**Result:** No Contest (Illegal Upkick) - Round 1, 4:59

## Main Card

## Light Heavyweight Bout: Alonzo Menifield vs. Oumar Sy

**Result:** Alonzo Menifield def. Oumar Sy via Decision (Unanimous) (29-28, 29-28, 29-28) - Round 3, 5:00

## Middleweight Bout: Mansur Abdul-Malik vs. Cody Brundage

**Result:** Mansur Abdul-Malik def. Cody Brundage (Unanimous) (30-27, 29-28, 29-28) Round 3, 0:36

## Bantamweight Bout: Cody Garbrandt vs. Raoni Barcelos

**Result:** Raoni Barcelos def. Cody Garbrandt via Decision (Unanimous) (29-28, 29-28, 29-28) Round 3, 5:00

## Middleweight Bout: Edmen Shahbazyan vs. Andre Petroski

**Result:** Edmen Shahbazyan def. Andre Petroski via Decision (Unanimous) (30-27, 30-27, 29-28) Round 3, 5:00

## Flyweight Bout: Rose Namajunas vs. Miranda Maverick

**Result:** Rose Namajunas def. Miranda Maverick via Decision (Unanimous) (30-27, 30-27, 29-28) Round 3, 5:00

## Welterweight Bout: Kamaru Usman vs. Joaquin Buckley

**Result:** Kamaru Usman def. Joaquin Buckley via Decision (Unanimous) (49-46, 49-46, 48-47) - Round 5, 5:00

UFC Fight Night Usman vs. Buckley Results

The UFC is back tomorrow, headlined by the return of former Welterweight champion Kamaru Usman as he takes on knockout artist Joaquin Buckley from the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. The official weigh-ins took place today; here are the results.

## Main Card 10 PM EST

**Welterweight:** Kamaru Usman (171) vs. Joaquin Buckley (171)

**Flyweight:** Rose Namajunas (126) vs. Miranda Maverick (126)

**Middleweight:** Edmen Shahbazyan (185) vs. Andre Petroski (186)

**Bantamweight:** Cody Garbrandt (136) vs. Raoni Barcelos (136)

**Middleweight:** Cody Brundage (185) vs. Mansur Abdul-Malik (186)

**Light Heavyweight:** Alonzo Menifield (206) vs. Oumar Sy (206)

## Prelims 7 PM EST

**Light Heavyweight:** Paul Craig (206) vs. Rodolfo Bellato (205.5)

**Welterweight:** Michael Chiesa (171) vs. Court McGee (170)

**Bantamweight:** Malcolm Wellmaker (136) vs. Kris Moutinho (136)

**Flyweight:** Cody Durden (126) vs. Jose Ochoa (125)

**Bantamweight:** Ricky Simon (136) vs. Cameron Smotherman (136)

**Welterweight:** Phil Rowe (171) vs. Ange Loosa (171)

**Flyweight:** Jamey-Lyn Horth (126) vs. Vanessa Demopoulos (126)

UFC Fight Night: Usman vs. Buckley Weigh-In Results

The UFC keeps rolling with another card of action this weekend, headlined by former Welterweight champion Kamaru Usman taking on streaking contender Joaquin Buckley from the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. I went over that fight and every other matchup on the card to give my picks, including the Underdog Best Bet of the Week, so let's get into it.

**Odds provided by Duelbits accurate as of 6/12/2025**

## Kamaru Usman +205 vs. Joaquin Buckley -263

Welterweights on opposite trajectories cross paths here in our main event. Kamaru Usman returns after over a year and a half hiatus; now, at thirty-eight years old, he will look to prove he still possesses the dominant wrestling and technically sound boxing that helped him defend the title multiple times. Joaquin Buckley is an incredibly athletic and explosive fighter who has produced some incredible knockouts and is coming off a dominant finish of former title challenger Colby Covington. 

The odds make it tempting to go with the underdog, but I'm picking Buckley as he has major advantages in terms of youth and athleticism that will be difficult for Usman to overcome.

Prediction: Buckley by Decision

## Rose Namajunas -250 vs. Miranda Maverick +195

A former champion faces off against a rising contender here at Flyweight. Rose Namajunas continues her run at Flyweight here, where she has proven still to be one of the best strikers in the division, although her grappling cost her last time out against Erin Blanchfield, who took over in the later rounds. Miranda Maverick is a skilled wrestler who comes in having won six of her last seven matches, proving that she can out-grapple anyone other than the best in the division, with her only losses coming to Jasmine Jasudavicius and Erin Blanchfield, along with a highly disputed decision against Maycee Barber.

I'll pick Namajunas here as she has a clear, striking advantage, and although she was outwrestled her last time out, we have seen the difference in the level of Blanchfield and Maverick when they fought, and Blanchfield was able to grapple her way to victory there as well.

Prediction: Namajunas by Decision

## Edmen Shahbazyan -179 vs. Andre Petroski +145

Exciting finishers square off in what should be a fun one at Middleweight. Edmen Shahbazyan is a very talented striker with deadly knockout power early on, although his cardio has consistently let him down throughout his career. Andre Petroski is a strong grappler who comes in having won three straight, showcasing a strong top game and effective takedowns, along with significantly improved striking against Rodolfo Viera.

I'm taking Petroski as the underdog here, given his advantage in grappling and his cardio, which has led to much more success in fights that extend past the first round than Shahbazyan.

Prediction: Petroski by Decision

## Cody Garbrandt +165 vs. Raoni Barcelos -204

Fan favorite and former champion takes on a tricky veteran in his Bantamweight matchup. Cody Garbrandt is a dangerous knockout artist who once reached the top of the division, although his durability and fight IQ have prevented him from returning to that level. Raoni Barcelos is a skilled veteran who recently pulled off a massive upset against Payton Talbott, showcasing his strong grappling game, although his striking is solid as well, with a high volume and effective low kicks.

I like Garbrandt, as he has the power and speed to give Barcelos trouble on the feet, and he has much better wrestling credentials than Barcelos' last opponent in Talbott. With that, Cody Garbrandt MoneyLine is this week's Underdog Best Bet of the Week.

Prediction: Garbrandt by 1st Round KO (Best Bet)

## Cody Brundage +520 vs. Mansur Abdul-Malik -833

Short-notice replacement steps in here to give us a banger at Middleweight. Cody Brundage is a wrestler with solid power in his hands and a tendency to brawl for better or worse with his questionable durability. Mansur Abdul-Malik is an undefeated fighter who comes in after getting knockout wins in his first two UFC appearances.

Abdul-Malik is likely to secure another knockout finish here, as he is more powerful, a better technical striker, and has proven to be much more durable.

Prediction: Abdul-Malik by 1st Round TKO

## Alonzo Menifield +480 vs. Oumar Sy -710

Powerful Light Heavyweights go head-to-head in this veteran-against-prospect clash. Alonzo Menifield is a strong and powerful veteran who has proven to be a tough test for anyone who is not a top-level fighter. Oumar Sy is an undefeated prospect who has demonstrated dangerous finishing skills in both his striking and grappling games, although he has yet to be tested against top-level competition.

I'll go with Sy to get the win, as I feel he is much more technical and well-rounded while also being the younger fighter who has absorbed less damage. 

Prediction: Sy by Decision

## Paul Craig +300 vs. Rodolfo Bellato -400

Light Heavyweights who were originally set to face off several weeks ago will now meet this weekend after a late cancellation. Paul Craig is a tricky grappler with dangerous submissions, although his striking and durability have held him back. Rodolfo Bellato is a dangerous striker who has overcome early adversity several times already in the UFC, although this has often put him in difficult positions against lower-level competition.

I'll pick Bellato, as I feel he can keep it on the feet, where he'll have a clear advantage. However, at these odds, after the cancellation, this is an easy pass from a betting perspective.

Prediction: Bellato by 2nd Round TKO

## Michael Chiesa -345 vs. Court McGee +270

Veteran wrestlers collide in this one at Welterweight. Michael Chiesa is a skilled grappler with good top pressure and a solid submission game; however, his striking has always appeared stiff, especially against Kevin Holland. Court McGee is a gritty wrestler with a heavy-pressure style that includes volume striking and grinding grappling exchanges.

I'll go with Chiesa here as he is the longer guy who has fought and beaten much better competition.

Prediction: Chiesa by Decision

## Malcolm Wellmaker -2000 vs. Kris Moutinho +950

 This late addition features a red-hot prospect fighting in his hometown against a familiar face at Bantamweight. Malcolm Wellmaker returns after his impressive debut, where he knocked out Cameron Saaiman in the first round, showing the dangerous striking he showed early in his career translates to this level. Kris Moutinho is back in the UFC after a five-fight win streak since his two-fight stint in the UFC, which was most notable for the beatdown he absorbed against Sean O'Malley on short notice.

Wellmaker should handle business here, as he is the more skilled and powerful striker who will have the home crowd behind him.

Prediction: Wellmaker by 1st Round KO

## Cody Durden +155 vs. Jose Ochoa -196

Flyweights are looking to move closer to the rankings as they square off here. Cody Durden is a wrestler who constantly pressures his opponents with a smothering attack, although his durability has proven questionable at times. Jose Ochoa is a big guy for the division with good striking.

I'm picking Ochoa in this one as I see his size and power being too much for Durden, leading to a finish.

Prediction: Ochoa by 2nd Round TKO

## Ricky Simon -526 vs. Cameron Smotherman +380

A short-notice replacement comes in to save a fight here at Bantamweight. Ricky Simon is a strong wrestler who showed his hands are also dangerous in his last fight, where he scored a highlight knockout over Javid Basharat. Cameron Smotherman comes in here on a week's notice, which he has done before in his debut win over Jake Hadley, where he showed his high-pace striking attack.

Simon should have a big advantage in the wrestling here, as we have seen Smotherman controlled for long stretches before by lesser competition.

Prediction: Simon by Decision

## Phil Rowe +110 vs. Ange Loosa -135

Two experienced Welterweights looking to get back in the win column face off in this prelim matchup. Phil Rowe is a tall and long fighter for the division with solid striking and decent submissions, although he has allowed guys like Jake Matthews to overwhelm him with volume. Ange Loosa is a stocky boxer who is very durable and has a decent wrestling attack, although he did gas out badly against Rhys McKee.

I lean towards Rowe here as I feel he will be able to use his reach advantage to keep Loosa at range and pick him apart.

Prediction: Rowe by Decision

## Jamey-Lyn Horth -588 vs. Vanessa Demopoulos +400

Flyweights open the card. Jamey-Lyn Horth is a strong and well-rounded fighter who effectively pressures her opponents. Vanessa Demopoulos is a fast-paced grappler with decent submission skills, although she struggles when outmatched on the ground.

I'm taking Horth here as she is much larger and will have the advantage anywhere the fights goes.

Prediction: Horth by Decision

UFC Fight Night: Usman vs. Buckley Odds Breakdown

The 2025 PFL World Championship continues with PFL 5: Jackson vs. Jean, as the Welterweights and Featherweights take center stage. The fighters hit the scales ahead of Thursday’s event in Nashville, with each bout part of the tournament semifinals. Full weigh-in results below.

Here is your original format updated with the **corrected weights** and **Anthony Ivy's weight miss**:

---

## Main Card

**Welterweight:** Jason Jackson (**171.0 lbs**) vs. Thad Jean (**170.4 lbs**)

**Featherweight:** Jesus Pinedo (**145.2 lbs**) vs. Gabriel Braga (**145.0 lbs**)

**Welterweight:** Logan Storley (**170.6 lbs**) vs. Masayuki Kikuiri (**170.4 lbs**)

**Featherweight:** Movlid Khaybulaev (**145.4 lbs**) vs. Kim Tae‑kyun (**145.6 lbs**)

## Prelims

**Featherweight:** Jeremy Kennedy (**146.0 lbs**) vs. Ádám Borics (**145.8 lbs**)

**Welterweight (Catchweight):** Magomed Umalatov (**170.4 lbs**) vs. Anthony Ivy (**175.4 lbs**)

**Welterweight:** Joseph Luciano (**170.4 lbs**) vs. Sarek Shields (**170.0 lbs**)

**Welterweight:** Mukhamed Berkhamov (**170.6 lbs**) vs. Kendly St. Louis (**170.2 lbs**)

**Featherweight:** Alexei Pergande (**145.4 lbs**) vs. Mike Bardsley (**145.2 lbs**)

**Bantamweight:** Jason Danner (**135.8 lbs**) vs. Nathan Gilmore (**135.0 lbs**)

All fighters successfully made weight ahead of Thursday’s event at the Nashville Municipal Auditorium **except Anthony Ivy, who missed weight by 4.4 pounds**. His bout proceeds at catchweight. The prelims stream live on **ESPN+ at 7:30 p.m. ET**, followed by the main card on **ESPN2 and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET**.



PFL 5: Jackson vs. Jean Weigh-In Results

The PFL continues its 2025 World Tournament with PFL 5: Jackson vs. Jean, unfolding tonight, Thursday, June 12, at the Nashville Municipal Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee. This event features the semifinal brackets in both the Welterweight and Featherweight divisions. Let's take a look at the key matchups. 

## Main Event: Jason Jackson vs. Thad Jean (Welterweight Semifinal)

Jason “The Ass-Kicking Machine” Jackson enters with a 19‑5 professional record, riding momentum after submitting Andrey Koreshkov in his quarterfinal matchup earlier in April, his PFL debut in 2025. Jackson is a well-rounded former Bellator Champion who's capable of winning the fight on the feet or the ground. Thad Jean, boasting an unblemished 9‑0 overall and 5‑0 PFL record, secured his semifinal spot via first-round TKO of Mukhamed Berkhamov. A talented all-rounder with quick finishes, Jean’s explosive style and athleticism make this one to watch. 

## Co-Main Event: Jesus Pinedo vs. Gabriel Braga (Featherweight Semifinal) 

Set for the co-main event is the trilogy bout between Jesus Pinedo (24‑6‑1) and Gabriel Braga (16‑2). Their rivalry dates back to April 2023 when Braga edged Pinedo by a razor-thin decision. Pinedo responded by winning the 2023 PFL Featherweight title in their second meeting, winning via TKO. In this year’s quarterfinals, Pinedo dispatched Adam Borics via first-round TKO, while Braga secured a submission win over Fredrik Dupras. The rubber match promises fireworks as Pinedo seeks to continue his momentum, and Braga looks to avenge his last loss. 

## Logan Storley vs. Masayuki Kikuiri (Welterweight Semifinal)

Logan Storley joins tonight with a 17‑3 record and a 2‑1 showing in the PFL season. A former interim Bellator champion, Storley brings championship-level wrestling and relentless pressure. His opponent, Masayuki Kikuiri (11‑2‑1), is unbeaten in the PFL World Tournament and impressed in the first round. Kikuiri’s technical striking and solid defensive wrestling make this a classic striker-vs-grappler showdown. 

## Movlid Khaybulaev vs. Kim Tae‑kyun (Featherweight Semifinal)

Featherweight action continues with former PFL champion Movlid Khaybulaev, now 22‑0‑1 with a near-flawless 8‑0‑1 record in PFL competition. Khaybulaev secured his semifinal place with a strong showing in the quarterfinals. His opponent, Kim Tae‑kyun (11‑1), also advanced convincingly and looks to showcase his well-rounded game. Expect Khaybulaev’s veteran savvy and control to clash with Kim’s striking and counter-offense. 

PFL 5: Jackson vs. Jean goes town tonight, Thursday, June 12, at the Nashville Municipal Auditorium. Prelims stream on ESPN+ at 7:30 p.m. ET, with the main card airing on ESPN2 and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET.

PFL 5: Jackson vs. Jean Preview

It's officially fight week, as Joaquin Buckley is set to take on former Welterweight champion Kamaru Usman this Saturday from the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. The odds are stacked against the former champion, who is now a big underdog.

**Odds provided by Duelbits accurate as of 6/9/2025**

## Odds: Kamaru Usman +205, Joaquin Buckley -263

This will be the first time we see Usman in the cage in over a year and a half since his fight with Khamzat Chimaev, which he lost by majority decision. Joaquin Buckley gets his second straight main event after getting a stoppage win over Colby Covington late last year.

## Past Odds: Kamaru Usman

*Odds via FightOdds.io*

Kamaru Usman (+285) vs. Khamzat Chimaev (-360) UFC 294 - Loss

Kamaru Usman (-265) vs. Leon Edwards (+225) UFC 285 - Loss

Kamaru Usman (-345) vs. Leon Edwards (+315) UFC 278 - Loss

Kamaru Usman (-275) vs. Colby Covington (+250) UFC 268 - Win

Kamaru Usman (-340) vs. Jorge Masvidal (+310) UFC 261 - Win

## Past Odds: Joaquin Buckley

*Odds via FightOdds.io*

Joaquin Buckley (-209) vs. Colby Covington (+179) UFC Fight Night: Covington vs. Buckley - Win

Joaquin Buckley (-206) vs. Stephen Thompson (+176) UFC 307 - Win

Joaquin Buckley (-138) vs. Nursultan Ruziboev (+118) UFC Fight Night: Lewis vs. Nascimento - Win

Joaquin Buckley (-129) vs. Vicente Luque (+109) UFC Fight Night: Blanchfield vs. Fiorot - Win

Joaquin Buckley (-185) vs. Alex Morono (+160) UFC Fight Night: Dawson vs. Green - Win

## Full Card Odds

Kamaru Usman +205 vs. Joaquin Buckley -263, Welterweight

Rose Namajunas -270 vs. Miranda Maverick +210, Flyweight

Edmen Shahbazyan -189 vs. Andre Petroski +155, Middleweight

Cody Garbrandt +140 vs. Raoni Barcelos -160, Bantamweight

Alonzo Menifield +400 vs. Oumar Sy -588, Light Heavyweight

Paul Craig +275 vs. Rodolfo Bellato -357, Light Heavyweight

Michael Chiesa -357 vs. Court McGee +270, Welterweight

Malcolm Wellmaker -1429 vs. Kris Moutinho +750, Bantamweight

Cody Durden +144 vs. Jose Ochoa -179, Flyweight

Ricky Simon -169 vs. Charles Jourdain +138, Bantamweight

Phil Rowe +115 vs. Ange Loosa -141, Welterweight

Jamey-Lyn Horth -476 vs. Vanessa Demopoulos +340, Flyweight

Who do you have in this big Welterweight clash? Let us know in the comments.

Betting Odds: Joaquin Buckley Heavily Favoured Against Kamaru Usman Entering Fight Week

UFC 316 is live from the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, headlined by Merab Dvalishvili defending his Bantamweight title in a rematch against Sean O'Malley. Here are the results from the card.

## Prelims

## Lightweight Bout: MarQuel Mederos vs. Mark Choinski

**Result:** MarQel Mederos def. Mark Choinski via Decision (Unanimous) (30-27, 30-27, 29-28) - Round 3, 5:00

## Lightweight Bout: Quillan Salkilld vs. Yanal Ashmouz

**Result:** Quillan Salkilld def. Yanal Ashmouz via Decision (Unanimous) (30-27, 29-28, 29-28) - Round 3. 5:00

## Featherweight Bout: Joo Sang Yoo vs. Jeka Saragih

**Result:** Joo Sang Yoo def. Jeka Saragih via KO (Punch) - Round 1, 0:28

## Women's Flyweight Bout: Ariane Lipski vs. Cong Wang

**Result:** Cong Wang def. Ariane Lipski via Decision (Unanimous) (30-27, 30-27, 30-27) - Round 3, 5:00

## Welterweight Bout: Khaos Williams vs. Andreas Gustafsson

**Result:** Andreas Gustafsson def. Khaos Williams via Decision (Unanimous) (30-27, 30-26, 30-26) - Round 3, 5:00 

## Heavyweight Bout: Serghei Spivac vs. Waldo Cortes-Acosta

**Result:** Waldo Cortes-Acosta def. Serghei Spivac via Decision (Unanimous) (30-27, 29-28, 29-28) - Round 3, 5:00

## Light Heavyweight Bout: Azamat Murzakhanov vs. Brendson Ribeiro

**Result:** Azamat Murzakakhanov def. Brendson Ribeiro via TKO (Punches to Ground and Pound) - Round 1, 3:25

## Flyweight Bout: Bruno Silva vs. Joshua Van

**Result:** Joshua Van def. Bruno Silva via TKO (Punches) - Round 3, 4:01

## Welterweight Bout: Vicente Luque vs. Kevin Holland

**Result:** Kevin Holland def. Vicente Luque via Submission (D'Arce Choke) - Round 2, 1:03

## Bantamweight Bout: Mario Bautista vs. Patchy Mix

**Result:** Mario Bautista def. Patchy Mix via Decision (Unanimous) (29-28, 30-27, 30-27) - Round 3, 5:00

## Middleweight Bout: Kelvin Gastelum vs. Joe Pyfer

**Result:** Joe Pyfer def. Kelvin Gastelum via Decision (Unanimous) (29-28, 29-27, 30-27) - Round 3, 5:00

## Women's Flyweight Title Bout: Julianna Pena vs. Kayla Harrison

**Result:** Kayla Harrison def. Julianna Pena via Submission (Kimura) - Round 2, 4:52

## Bantamweight Title Bout: Merab Dvalishvili vs. Sean O'Malley

**Result:** Merab Dvalishvili def. Sean O'Malley via Submission (North-South Choke) - Round 3, 4:42

UFC 316 Results

The UFC is live on PPV tomorrow, headlined by a pair of Bantamweight title fights in the rematch between Merab Dvalishvili and Sean O'Malley, as well as Kayla Harrison challenging Julianna Pena for her title. The official weigh-ins took place today, here are the results.

## Main Card 10 PM EST

**Bantamweight:** Merab Dvalishvili (134) vs. Sean O'Malley (135)

**Bantamweight:** Julianna Pena (135) vs. Kayla Harrison (135)

**Middleweight:** Kelvin Gastelum (185) vs. Joe Pyfer (185)

**Bantamweight:** Mario Bautista (135) vs. Patchy Mix (135)

**Welterweight:** Vicente Luque (170) vs. Kevin Holland (170)

## Prelims 6 PM EST

**Flyweight:** Bruno Silva (125) vs. Joshua Van (125)

**Light Heavyweight:** Azamat Murzakhanov (205) vs. Brendson Ribeiro (205)

**Heavyweight:** Serghei Spivac (251) vs. Waldo Cortes-Acosta (265)

**Welterweight:** Khaos Williams (170) vs. Andreas Gustafsson (170)

**Flyweight:** Ariane Lipski (132)`* vs. Cong Wang (125)

**Featherweight:** Joo Sang Yoo (145) vs. Jeka Saragih (145)

**Lightweight:** Quillan Salkilld (156) vs. Yanal Ashmouz (155)

**Lightweight:** MarQuel Mederos (155) vs. Mark Choinski (155)

*Fighter Missed Weight

UFC 316 Weigh-In Results

The UFC is back on PPV this weekend with a card headlined by two title fights as Merab Dvalishvili looks to defend his Bantamweight title in a rematch against Sean O'Malley and Julianna Pena takes on Kayla Harrison for the Women's Bantamweight title in the co-main event from the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. I went over those fights and every other matchup on the card to give my picks, including the Underdog Best Bet of the Week, so let's get into it.

**Odds provided by DuelBits accurate as of 6/5/2025**

## Merab Dvalishvili -286 vs. Sean O'Malley +225

The Bantamweight title is on the line in this rematch. Merab Dvalishvili has been on a dominant run with his relentless pace and high-level grappling, having broken down every opponent he has faced since 2018, although he has been hurt early in several of his fights, like against Marlon Moraes and Henry Cejudo. Sean O'Malley is a long and sharp striker with serious knockout power and underrated cardio, as demonstrated by his impressive output against both Kris Moutinho and Chito Vera.

At these odds, I have to pick O'Malley as going into the last fight, the odds were even, and I don't believe that that result justifies this large of a shift as we saw O'Malley find some success with the striking despite not finding the knockout shot that he needed to get the victory last time. Despite Merab's success, we have still seen him hurt by less dangerous strikers than O'Malley, leaving a clear path for the now sizable underdog.

Prediction: O'Malley by 3rd Round TKO

## Julianna Pena +480 vs. Kayla Harrison -714

Strong grapplers with long championship histories clash here for the Women's Bantamweight title. Julianna Pena is a tough grappler who rushes her opponents to try and get them down, which often leaves her open to big strikes, as Amanda Nunes and Raquel Pennington both capitalized on by dropping her in her last two fights. Kayla Harrison is a freakishly strong wrestler with dominant top control and a great ability to do damage or find submissions when working from those positions.

I see Harrison dominating this matchup and securing a finish, as Pena has struggled against stronger grapplers in the past, with her takedown defense being a weak point in her game.

Prediction: Harrison by 2nd Round TKO

## Kelvin Gastelum +280 vs. Joe Pyfer -370

After a late cancellation weeks ago, these Middleweights will finally settle things here. Kelvin Gastelum is a durable and high-paced striker with good boxing skills but a questionable ground game, as seen against Sean Brady and Jack Hermansson. Joe Pyfer is a powerful finisher with knockout power in his hands and a good submission game as well, although his cardio failed him in the later rounds against Jack Hermansson.

I'll go with Pyfer to get a decision or submission here, as I see his power and physical advantages being too much for Gastelum. However, Gastelum's durability makes him difficult to knock out, which leads me to look at Pyfer's other paths to victory.

Prediction: Pyfer by Decision

## Mario Bautista +150 vs. Patchy Mix -189

The highly anticipated debut of a champion from outside of the UFC goes down here at Bantamweight. Mario Bautista is a battle-tested veteran with a well-rounded skill set and the ability to maintain a very high pace. Patchy Mix is a phenomenal grappler with expertise in working off the back, coming in with a lot of hype, although he has been away for over a year since his last fight, which I felt he lost against Magomed Magomedov, largely due to his poor striking defense.

I like Bautista at these odds because I see his game matching up well against Mix, with the striking advantage likely going to Bautista, and his grappling is stronger than that of many of Mix's opponents in Bellator. With that, Mario Bautista MoneyLine is this week's Underdog Best Bet of the Week.

Prediction: Bautista by Decision (Best Bet)

## Vicente Luque +215 vs. Kevin Holland -278

Veteran Welterweights known for putting on exciting fights square off in this one. Vicente Luque is a dangerous finisher who once had a granite chin, although that has now been cracked, and he has not looked the same in recent years. Kevin Holland is an always-exciting striker with a tricky submission game and impressive power to complement his long reach.

I'm taking Holland here, as Luque has not looked good when facing solid competition in recent years. For his flaws, Holland has a lot of physical ability, which I see as being too much for Luque to overcome.

Prediction: Holland by 1st Round TKO

## Bruno Silva +440 vs. Joshua Van -667

Flyweight prospects collide in this exciting featured prelim. Bruno Silva is a tough boxer who has demonstrated his ability to absorb punishment while still seeking the finish, as seen in his victory over Cody Durden. Joshua Van is as active as anyone on the roster and has looked better with each outing, his boxing has been tremendous, and he has significantly improved his grappling since the early days of his career.

The price on Silva is tempting, considering his finishing instinct and Van's knockout loss to Charles Johnson in mind, but I'm picking Van in this one, as I see him overwhelming Silva in the later rounds with his volume.

Prediction: Van by Decision

## Azamat Murzakanov -588 vs. Brendson Ribeiro +420

Powerful Light Heavyweights collide, looking to keep their win streaks intact. Azamat Murzakanov is a tank who comes in with an unbeaten record, including four UFC wins, three of which came by knockout, including his last against Alonzo Menifield. Brendson Ribeiro is a well-rounded finisher who comes in off an impressive submission victory against Diyar Nurgozhay, where he was a massive underdog.

Murzakanov should get the win here, as he has a significant advantage in striking skills and power, as well as being the more durable of the two.

Prediction: Murzakanov by 1st Round KO

## Serghei Spivac -141 vs. Waldo Cortes-Acosta +115

Ranked Heavyweights square off here in this one. Serghei Spivac is a strong wrestler who executes takedowns well and possesses good finishing skills when on the ground; however, his striking has been an issue when he cannot establish his wrestling dominance. Waldo Cortes-Acosta is a powerful boxer who has developed a solid ground game, as he showed against Robelis Despaigne, although he cannot be trusted to push much of a pace and hasn't faced top-level competition yet.

I'll take Cortes-Acosta here, as Spivac has struggled when unable to force a grappling match, and I believe WCA has good enough wrestling to keep it upright and do enough damage.

Prediction: Cortes-Acosta by 3rd Round TKO

## Khaos Williams -192 vs. Andreas Gustafsson +155

A late change of opponents leaves us with this fun Welterweight matchup. Khaos Williams is a strong knockout puncher who looks to bounce back from his first career submission loss here after Gabriel Bonfim choked him out last fight. Andreas Gustafsson is a gritty fighter who likes to get in close and work from the clinch to overwhelm his opponents early, although when extended late into fights, he has struggled.

I'll go with Williams here as he is the more experienced fighter who has a clear striking advantage and has proven very difficult to submit.

Prediction: Williams by 3rd Round KO

## Ariane Lipski +380 vs. Cong Wang -526

It's a fun matchup here in the deep women's Flyweight division. Ariane Lipski is a skilled fighter with good finishing skills on the ground, although her performances have been inconsistent. Cong Wang is a dangerous kickboxer with real knockout power in her hands, although she has not proven much against high-level MMA competition.

I like Wang to get a finish here, as she has proven to have punishing power in her hands, and we have seen Lipski finished on several occasions.

Prediction: Wang by 2nd Round TKO

## Joo Sang Yoo -588 vs. Jeka Saragih +420

Featherweight finishers looking to make a statement square off in this prelim matchup. Joo Sang Yoo makes his debut here as an undefeated prospect who has shown a well-rounded game, although he has yet to face much tough competition. Jeka Saragih is a wild striker with dangerous power, as shown against Lucas Alexander, although he doesn't have a strong ground game, which cost him against Westin Wilson.

I like Sang Yoo to get a submission here, as we have seen Saragih struggle when forced to grapple, and Sang Yoo has a ground game good enough to dominate here.

Prediction: Sang Yoo by 1st Round Submission

## Quillan Salkilld -556 vs. Yanal Ashmouz +400

Up-and-coming lightweights square off here, looking to establish themselves in this deep division. Quillan Salkilld looks to build off an impressive debut here after knocking out Anshul Jubli in under a minute earlier this year. Yanal Ashmouz is a durable striker with a big right hand, which he showcased in his knockout win over Sam Patterson, although he is small for the division, often giving up height and reach.

I'll go with Salkilld here as he is the longer and more technical striker who has demonstrated equal, if not greater, power than Ashmouz.

Prediction: Salkilld by Decision

## MarQuel Mederos -213 vs. Mark Choinski +170

Lightweights open the card with this short-notice clash. MarQuel Mederos is a good volume striker with strong boxing, although his wrestling nearly cost him in a close fight with Austin Hubbard, where he was controlled for long stretches. Mark Choinski steps in on short notice as an undefeated submission specialist who has looked vulnerable in the striking department, including early in his last fight, where his opponent was walking him down without issue.

I lean towards Mederos here, as I see him landing hard strikes early and often. However, at these odds, it's worth noting that I have concerns that Choinski could use his grappling to control long portions of the fight.

Prediction: Mederos by 2nd Round TKO