MMA Fight Preview: Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos (25-8-1) vs. Chidi Njokuani (24-10)

The upcoming MMA match between Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos and Chidi Njokuani at UFC Fight Night 254 on Saturday, March 15, 2025, is set to be an exciting clash in the welterweight division.

Fighter Overview

Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos (“Capoeira”)

Record: 25-8-1

Height: 5’11”

Weight: 171 lbs

Reach: 73″

Stance: Orthodox

Striking Accuracy: 51%

Takedown Accuracy: 40%

Submission Average: 0.3 per 15 minutes

Chidi Njokuani (“Bang Bang”)

Record: 24-10-0

Height: 6’3″

Weight: 170 lbs

Reach: 80″

Stance: Orthodox

Striking Accuracy: 45%

Takedown Accuracy: 0%

Submission Average: 0.0 per 15 minutes

Recent Form

Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos

Zaleski dos Santos has shown resilience and versatility in his recent fights. He secured a victory against Randy Brown and a draw against Rinat Fakhretdinov. His ability to mix striking and grappling makes him a well-rounded fighter.

Chidi Njokuani

Njokuani has been on a rollercoaster ride with mixed results in his recent bouts. He secured wins against Jared Gooden and Rhys McKee but faced losses against Michal Oleksiejczuk and Albert Duraev. Njokuani’s striking prowess and reach advantage make him a dangerous opponent.

Key Statistics

Strikes Landed per Minute (SLpM): Njokuani 3.52, Zaleski dos Santos 3.16

Striking Defense: Njokuani 66%, Zaleski dos Santos 54%

Takedown Defense: Njokuani 100%, Zaleski dos Santos 0%

Matchup Breakdown

Striker vs. Grappler

This fight pits Njokuani’s precise striking against Zaleski dos Santos’s well-rounded approach. Njokuani’s 45% striking accuracy and 66% striking defense will be crucial in keeping the fight standing and utilizing his reach advantage.

Zaleski dos Santos, on the other hand, will look to mix in his grappling to offset Njokuani’s striking. With a 40% takedown accuracy, Zaleski dos Santos will aim to bring the fight to the ground where he can utilize his submission skills.

Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos              + 170

Chidi Njokuani                                  – 200

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, March 14, 2025