MMA Match Preview: Jacob Malkoun (8-3) vs. Torrez Finney (11-0)
Jacob Malkoun (8-3-0) faces Torrez Finney (11-0-0) in a middleweight prelim bout at UFC 325, as Malkoun aims to build on a recent knockout win against an undefeated Finney making his UFC debut after a strong DWCS showing. Malkoun, a grappling specialist with knockout power, returns to action after a back injury sidelined him in 2025, while Finney, a former D1 wrestler, looks to extend his perfect record with superior athleticism and takedown defense. This matchup could hinge on wrestling exchanges, potentially leading to a ground battle or a stand-up war if Malkoun’s striking connects, in what promises to be a competitive test for both fighters in the 185-pound division.
Venue Location
The fight will be held at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. This 21,000-capacity multi-purpose arena is a staple for UFC events in Australia, known for its vibrant atmosphere and passionate local crowds, especially for home-country fighters like Malkoun.
Ring walks are scheduled for 5:00 PM ET (2:00 PM PT / 9:00 AM AEDT local time on February 1). Prelims follow at 7:00 PM ET (4:00 PM PT / 11:00 AM AEDT), and the main card at 9:00 PM ET (6:00 PM PT / 1:00 PM AEDT on February 1). As a prelim bout, cage walks for Malkoun vs. Finney are expected early in the prelims, around 7:30-8:00 PM ET (4:30-5:00 PM PT / 11:30 AM-12:00 PM AEDT). The event streams live on Paramount+ worldwide.
Injury Report
Malkoun dealt with a bulging disc in his lower back hitting the sciatic nerve in 2025, which caused nerve pain down his right leg and forced him to withdraw from a February 2025 bout against Rodolfo Vieira. He pushed through pain in camp but couldn’t walk after training, leading to a year-long layoff. Malkoun has since recovered fully and is cleared for UFC 325, with no current issues reported. Finney has no reported injuries leading into his UFC debut; his last fight was a split decision win in April 2025 with no lingering effects.
Fighter Matchups
This middleweight prelim bout contrasts Malkoun’s grappling and submission skills with Finney’s wrestling and athleticism, creating a ground-heavy clash at 185 pounds.
Jacob Malkoun (5’9″, 73″ reach, orthodox): A grappling specialist with strong wrestling and submission threats (1 submission win), Malkoun excels in takedowns, ground control, and transitions. His style suits chain wrestling and top pressure, with good cardio. Weaknesses include vulnerability to strikers on the feet and occasional defensive lapses standing.
Torrez Finney (5’8″, 75″ reach, orthodox): A former D1 wrestler with elite takedown defense and offensive grappling, Finney uses wrestling to dominate positions and ground-and-pound. His 73% finish rate shows versatility (KO/TKO and submissions). Weaknesses include limited UFC experience and potential exposure against seasoned grapplers like Malkoun.
Key Stylistic Clash: Malkoun’s submission grappling vs. Finney’s wrestling and ground-and-pound. Malkoun must secure top position for chokes; Finney needs to use defensive wrestling to reverse and strike.
Strengths/Weaknesses: Malkoun’s UFC experience (4-3) and recent knockout win give him an edge in versatility; Finney’s undefeated record and D1 wrestling background offer upset potential on the mat.
X-Factor: Finney’s debut jitters—if he adapts quickly, his athleticism shines; if Malkoun’s experience prevails, he could dominate on the ground.
Recent Form
Malkoun has alternated wins and losses, showing resilience, while Finney enters undefeated with a mix of finishes.
Jacob Malkoun (Last 5: W L W L W):
March 30, 2024: KO/TKO R2 0:39 vs. Andre Petroski (body kick KO, bizarre finish).
September 23, 2023: DQ R1 4:15 vs. Cody Brundage.
October 15, 2022: U-DEC R3 5:00 vs. Nick Maximov.
Form Notes: 3 wins in last 5, with 1 KO; strong grappling but inconsistent results.
Torrez Finney (Last 5: W W W W W):
April 5, 2025: S-DEC R3 5:00 vs. Robert Valentin.
October 1, 2024: KO/TKO R1 4:10 vs. Abdellah Er-Ramy (punches).
August 20, 2024: U-DEC R3 5:00 vs. Cam Rowston.
Form Notes: Undefeated with 3 finishes in last 5; elite wrestling translates well.
Fight History
This is the first meeting between Malkoun and Finney, with no prior head-to-head encounters or shared opponents. Malkoun’s UFC tenure (since 2020) meets Finney’s UFC debut after a strong DWCS run, making this a fresh middleweight matchup.
FIGHT ODDS
Jacob Malkoun – 160
Torrez Finney + 135
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, January 30, 2026
