| | |

MMA Match Preview: Sodiq Yusuff (15-1) vs. Mairon Santos (13-4)

ByFight Editor

The lightweight division heats up at UFC Fight Night 256, as Sodiq Yusuff (13-4) takes on rising prospect Mairon Santos (15-1). Yusuff is looking to snap a two-fight losing streak, while Santos aims to extend his undefeated UFC run to 3-0.

Fighter Profiles & Recent Form

Sodiq Yusuff

  • Record: 13-4
  • Age: 31
  • Height: 5’9″
  • Reach: 71″
  • Fight Style: High-volume striker with strong takedown defense
  • Recent Form: Yusuff has struggled recently, losing to Edson Barboza and Diego Lopes in his last two fights. He hasn’t won since October 2022, making this a must-win bout.

Mairon Santos

  • Record: 15-1
  • Age: 24
  • Height: 5’7″
  • Reach: 72″
  • Fight Style: Fast-paced striker with solid grappling
  • Recent Form: Santos has won both of his UFC fights, including a knockout victory over Kaan Ofli and a split-decision win over Francis Marshall. However, his last fight was closer than expected, raising questions about his ability to handle elite competition.

Fight Breakdown & Key Factors

Striking Battle

  • Yusuff lands 5.66 significant strikes per minute, compared to Santos’ 4.14.
  • Santos absorbs 2.37 strikes per minute, while Yusuff takes 4.51, showing Santos’ superior defense.
  • Yusuff has more power, but Santos’ speed and counter-striking could be key.

Grappling & Ground Game

  • Yusuff has 62% takedown defense, making him difficult to control on the ground.
  • Santos has 40% takedown defense, which could be exploited if Yusuff mixes in wrestling.
  • If Santos can secure takedowns, he has a strong chance of controlling the fight.

Cardio & Durability

  • Yusuff has five-round experience, but his endurance has declined in recent fights.
  • Santos has never fought past three rounds, making his stamina a potential question mark.
  • If Yusuff can push the pace, he may wear down Santos in the later rounds.

Santos’ speed and defensive awareness give him the edge, but Yusuff’s experience and striking power could make this competitive. If Yusuff keeps the fight standing, he has a strong chance of winning by decision. However, if Santos can control the pace and land counters, he could secure a late finish.

FIGHT ODDS

Sodiq Yusuff                       + 115

Mairon Santos                  – 135

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, May 16, 2025

TicketNetwork - Buy UFC Tickets

Similar Posts