MMA Match Preview: Serhiy Sidey (11-2) vs. Cameron Smotherman (12-4)
The bantamweight showdown between Serhiy Sidey and Cameron Smotherman is set to take place on May 3, 2025, at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa, as part of UFC Iowa. This bout will be featured on the main card, with the fighters expected to make their walk to the Octagon at approximately 9:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. PT.
Both fighters are rising prospects in the 135-pound division, looking to solidify their positions within the UFC ranks after securing wins in their last fights.
Fighter Profiles
Serhiy Sidey (11-2) – Canada
Sidey has gone 1-1 in the UFC, winning his most recent bout via split decision over Garrett Armfield. Before joining the UFC, he earned his contract with a knockout victory over Ramon Taveras on Dana White’s Contender Series.
Key Strengths:
- Striking Accuracy – Lands 4.87 significant strikes per minute at a 39% accuracy rate.
- Knockout Power – Seven of his wins have come via KO/TKO.
- Height & Reach Advantage – Stands 5’11” with a 72-inch reach, giving him an edge over Smotherman.
Key Weaknesses:
- Ground Game – Has struggled against grapplers in past fights.
- Defensive Vulnerabilities – Absorbs 4.44 significant strikes per minute, making him susceptible to Smotherman’s volume.
Cameron Smotherman (12-4) – USA
Smotherman enters this fight riding a four-fight winning streak, including a unanimous decision victory over Jake Hadley in his UFC debut. He is a former Fury FC champion, known for his aggressive style and high-volume striking.
Key Strengths:
- High Striking Output – Lands 6.25 significant strikes per minute, making him one of the most active bantamweights.
- Defensive Awareness – Absorbs 4.56 significant strikes per minute, demonstrating solid head movement.
- Cardio & Pressure Fighting – Pushes forward relentlessly, looking to dictate the pace.
Key Weaknesses:
- Submission Threat – Has only one submission victory in his career.
- Reach Disadvantage – Stands 5’9” with a 69-inch reach, giving Sidey a slight edge in range.
Fight Breakdown & Prediction
This matchup presents an interesting stylistic clash—Sidey will look to use his reach and knockout power, while Smotherman will likely push forward and engage in high-volume exchanges.
Key Factors:
- Sidey’s Reach Advantage – If he can keep Smotherman at a distance, he may control the fight with his jab.
- Smotherman’s Pressure & Cardio – If Smotherman can dictate the pace, he could overwhelm Sidey.
- Durability & Defense – Both fighters have shown resilience, making endurance a key factor.
FIGHT ODDS
Serhiy Sidey + 114
Cameron Smotherman – 135
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, May 2, 2025
