MMA Match Preview: Ion Cutelaba (19-10-1, 8-9-1 UFC) vs. Modestas Bukauskas (17-6, 5-4 UFC)
Date: May 10, 2025
Event: UFC 315
Venue: Bell Centre, Montreal, Canada
Division: Light Heavyweight (205 lbs)
Broadcast: ESPN+ Pay-Per-View
Fight Overview
Ion Cutelaba (19-10-1, 8-9-1 UFC) faces Modestas Bukauskas (17-6, 5-4 UFC) in a high-stakes light heavyweight clash at UFC 315. Both fighters are coming off victories at UFC Seattle, and Bukauskas specifically called for this matchup, believing it would be an exciting test for both men.
Fighter Profiles
Ion Cutelaba (“The Hulk”)
- Record: 19-10-1 (8-9-1 UFC)
- Age: 31
- Height: 6’1″
- Reach: 75″
- Fighting Style: Aggressive striker with wrestling background
- Key Strengths: Explosive power, relentless pressure
- Recent Fight: Won via first-round knockout against Aslanbek Bakhov
Cutelaba is known for his wild aggression, often charging forward with reckless abandon. While this approach has led to spectacular knockouts, it has also resulted in early gas-outs and defensive lapses. He has shown some patience in recent fights, but his style remains kill-or-be-killed.
Modestas Bukauskas (“The Baltic Gladiator”)
- Record: 17-6 (5-4 UFC)
- Age: 30
- Height: 6’3″
- Reach: 78″
- Fighting Style: Technical striker with solid takedown defense
- Key Strengths: Precision striking, durability, counter-punching
- Recent Fight: Won via second-round TKO against Tyson Pedro
Bukauskas has steadily improved since returning to the UFC, showing better patience and shot selection. He believes this fight will be explosive, expecting both men to come out swinging.
Statistical Comparison
| Fighter | Strikes Landed Per Minute | Striking Accuracy | Takedown Average | Takedown Defense |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ion Cutelaba | 4.92 | 48% | 2.88 per 15 min | 71% |
| Modestas Bukauskas | 3.85 | 42% | 1.2 per 15 min | 60% |
Cutelaba has the edge in striking volume and takedowns, but Bukauskas’ reach and counter-striking could be key factors.
Fight Breakdown & Prediction
1. Can Cutelaba’s Power Overwhelm Bukauskas?
Cutelaba thrives in fast-paced fights, looking for an early finish. If he can close the distance and land clean shots, he could secure a knockout.
2. Bukauskas’ Patience vs. Cutelaba’s Aggression
Bukauskas has improved his defensive awareness, making him less vulnerable to wild exchanges. If he can weather the early storm, he could take over in the later rounds.
FIGHT ODDS
Ion Cutelaba – 108
Modestas Bukauskas – 112
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, May 9, 2025
