MMA Match Preview: Kaan Ofli (12-4-1) vs. Yi Zha (26-5)
The featherweight division heats up in the prelims of UFC 325 as Australian contender Kaan “Genghis” Ofli (12-4-1) faces off against Chinese veteran Yi “N/A” Zha (26-5-0) in a 3-round bout. Ofli, fresh off an upset submission win in his UFC debut, aims to build momentum in his home country with his aggressive wrestling and finishing instincts, while Zha, a Road to UFC champion, looks to extend his strong form with technical striking and solid takedown defense. This matchup could turn into a grappling scramble if Ofli shoots early or a stand-up chess match if Zha dictates range, potentially leading to a decision in a competitive test for both fighters in the 145-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 electric atmosphere during home-country cards.
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 Ofli vs. Zha are expected 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
No injuries have been reported for either fighter leading into UFC 325. Both are coming off recent activity without setbacks. Ofli has shown durability in his UFC debut with no lingering issues, while Zha’s long career (31 fights) has no recent health concerns mentioned in previews.
Kaan Ofli:
No active injuries; fully healthy post-debut win.
Yi Zha:
No reported issues; durable veteran with no recent concerns.
Fighter Matchups
This featherweight prelim bout contrasts Ofli’s aggressive wrestling and finishing with Zha’s technical striking and experience, creating a well-rounded clash at 145 pounds.
Kaan Ofli (5’8″, orthodox): An aggressive wrestler with strong takedowns and submission threats (1 submission win), Ofli excels in scrambles, ground control, and transitions. His style suits chain wrestling and opportunistic finishes, with solid cardio. Weaknesses include vulnerability to strikers on the feet if takedowns are stuffed.
Yi Zha (5’7″, orthodox): A Road to UFC champion with solid striking and takedown defense, Zha uses footwork, jabs, and counters to outpoint aggressive foes. His experience in longer fights shows durability, but he can be overwhelmed by relentless wrestlers.
Key Stylistic Clash: Ofli’s wrestling pressure and submissions vs. Zha’s striking and defense. Ofli must secure takedowns early; Zha needs to keep it standing for counters.
Strengths/Weaknesses: Ofli’s home advantage in Australia and debut upset win favor him in a grind; Zha’s experience (31 fights vs. 17) and ranking (#56 UFC featherweight) offer potential to outbox if he stuffs takedowns.
X-Factor: Ofli’s Australian roots and recent momentum could energize him; if Zha exploits any debut-like nerves, his technique shines.
Recent Form
Ofli enters with an upset debut win, while Zha has been consistent in his career.
Kaan Ofli (Last 5: W-L-W-W-L):
October 11th: Submission R1 vs. Ricardo Ramos (upset UFC debut win).
Prior: Mixed regional results, but strong finishing (submission threat).
Form Notes: 3 wins in last 5, with 1 submission; momentum from debut upset.
Yi Zha (Last 5: W-W-W-L-W):
August 23, 2025: Win vs. opponent (UFC Fight Night bout).
Prior: Strong Road to UFC run; ranked #56 in UFC featherweight.
Form Notes: 4 wins in last 5; durable with experience in decisions.
| Fighter | Last 5 Record | Finish % | Avg. Rounds Last 5 | Key Stat |
| Kaan Ofli | W-L-W-W-L | 50% (subs/KOs) | ~2.0 | Upset specialist |
| Yi Zha | W-W-W-L-W | 40% | ~2.5 | Veteran durability |
Fight History
This is the first meeting between Ofli and Zha, with no prior head-to-head encounters or shared opponents. Ofli’s UFC debut win meets Zha’s Road to UFC championship in a fresh featherweight matchup.
FIGHT ODDS
Kaan Ofli + 180
Yi Zha – 220
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, January 30, 2026
