MMA Match Preview: Austin Hubbard (17-8-0) vs. Rongzhu (26-6)

Venue: Mercedes-Benz Arena, Shanghai, China
Division: Lightweight (155 lbs)
Scheduled: 3 Rounds
Card Placement: Preliminary Card

Match Overview

Veteran grinder Austin “Thud” Hubbard takes on Chinese knockout artist Rongzhu in a stylistic clash that pits volume and durability against explosive power. With Rongzhu favored by predictive models and Hubbard known for his cardio and grit, this lightweight bout could be one of the most competitive on the prelims.

Fighter Profiles & Stats

Austin Hubbard (Record: 17-8-0 MMA)

Age: 32

Height/Reach: 5’10” / 71″

Team: Valle Flow Striking

Recent Form: L-W-L-W-L

Strengths: High-volume striking, strong cardio, submission setups

Weaknesses: Low takedown accuracy (21%), limited finishing power

Hubbard has faced tough competition and often goes the distance. He’ll look to wear down Rongzhu with pace and pressure, using his jab and movement to frustrate the power puncher.

Rongzhu (Record: 26-6-0 MMA)

Age: 25

Height/Reach: 5’9″ / 72.5″

Team: Enbo Fight Club

Recent Form: W-L-L (Win over Kody Steele, losses to Bahamondes & Padilla)

Strengths: KO power (15 finishes), fast hands, aggressive style

Weaknesses: Control time (0:50), submission defense

Rongzhu is a fan favorite in China with a reputation for early finishes. He’ll look to land heavy shots and test Hubbard’s chin early, especially in front of a home crowd.

Tale of the Tape

Stat	Austin Hubbard	Rongzhu
Height	5’10”	5’9″
Reach	71″	72.5″
Knockouts	5	15
Submissions	2	6
UFC Wins	4	3
Takedown Accuracy	21%	25%
Control Time	10:50	0:50

Tactical Breakdown

Keys for Hubbard:

Push pace and volume over three rounds

Mix in takedowns to disrupt rhythm

Avoid early exchanges and wear down Rongzhu

Keys for Rongzhu:

Start fast and land power shots early

Use reach and timing to counter Hubbard’s entries

Stay off the cage and avoid grappling exchanges