MMA Match Preview: Daniel Santos (12-2, 2-1 UFC) vs. JeongYeong Lee (11-2, 1-1 UFC)
Date: May 10, 2025
Event: UFC 315
Venue: Bell Centre, Montreal, Canada
Division: Featherweight (145 lbs)
Broadcast: ESPN+ Pay-Per-View
Fight Overview
Daniel Santos (12-2, 2-1 UFC) faces JeongYeong Lee (11-2, 1-1 UFC) in a high-stakes featherweight clash at UFC 315. Santos, known for his aggressive striking and relentless pace, looks to extend his winning streak after a dominant victory over Johnny Munoz. Meanwhile, Lee, nicknamed the “Korean Tiger,” aims to bounce back after a first-round knockout loss to Hyder Amil.
Fighter Profiles
Daniel Santos (“Willycat”)
- Record: 12-2 (2-1 UFC)
- Age: 30
- Height: 5’7″
- Reach: 67″
- Fighting Style: Aggressive Muay Thai striker
- Key Strengths: High-volume striking, durability, takedown defense
- Recent Fight: Won via unanimous decision against Johnny Munoz
Santos is a pressure-heavy fighter who thrives in close-range exchanges. He lands 4.26 significant strikes per minute but absorbs 5.12, showing his willingness to engage in wars. His takedown defense (73%) will be crucial against Lee’s grappling-heavy approach.
JeongYeong Lee (“Korean Tiger”)
- Record: 11-2 (1-1 UFC)
- Age: 29
- Height: 5’10”
- Reach: 73″
- Fighting Style: Well-rounded grappler with striking power
- Key Strengths: Takedowns, submission skills, counter-striking
- Recent Fight: Lost via first-round knockout to Hyder Amil
Lee is a dangerous submission artist, attempting 0.5 finishes per three rounds. He lands 2.84 significant strikes per minute with 52% accuracy, making him more efficient than Santos. His six-inch reach advantage could help him control the distance.
Statistical Comparison
| Fighter | Strikes Landed Per Minute | Striking Accuracy | Takedown Average | Takedown Defense |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daniel Santos | 4.26 | 37% | 1.90 per 15 min | 73% |
| JeongYeong Lee | 2.84 | 52% | 1.66 per 15 min | 76% |
Lee has the edge in striking accuracy and takedown defense, but Santos’ pressure and volume could be the difference-maker.
Fight Breakdown & Prediction
1. Can Santos’ Pressure Overwhelm Lee?
Santos thrives in high-paced fights, forcing opponents into uncomfortable exchanges. If he can close the distance and land combinations, he could break Lee’s rhythm.
2. Lee’s Grappling vs. Santos’ Takedown Defense
Lee has a 66% takedown success rate, but Santos defends 73% of takedowns. If Lee can secure early control, he could dictate the fight.
FIGHT ODDS
Daniel Santos – 105
JeongYeong Lee – 115
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, May 9, 2025
