Preview: UFC Fight Night 242 “Burns vs. Brady”

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#11 FLW | Matt Schnell (16-8, 6-6 UFC) vs. #15 FLW | Cody Durden (16-6-1, 5-4-1 UFC)

CHANCES: Lack

The late warning for the defense makes for an intriguing bantamweight fight between full-time flyweights. Schnell’s UFC career has been full of ups and downs, but it’s usually been exciting at every turn — even if it hasn’t always been to his advantage. When “Danger” first signed with the UFC in 2016, he seemingly had all the offensive skills to quickly climb the division, but it soon became clear that his beard was a liability and his aggressive style was simply getting him there. Schnell has transformed in impressive ways, using his long frame to play a more patient and effective striking game while also offering excellent grappling as a transition. After finding his footing and getting back to the big spots, many of Schnell’s previous issues have returned. Schnell still has the patience and focus in fits and starts, but deep down he’s a savage who opponents have been able to lure into a fight. That has resulted in Schnell losing three of his last four fights, though his only win in that span over Su Mudaerji was one of the best fights of 2022. Even with Schnell’s struggles, it’s worth noting that all of his recent losses have come to near- or championship-level fighters, so this pairing against Durden — who steps into the ring on a few days’ notice — could prove to be the step back he needs.

Durden, who signed on late notice in 2020, has generally done well to adapt to the UFC level after overcoming a lackluster level of competition on the regional scene. Primarily a wrestler, Durden has developed a solid striking game and consistently maintained his aggression. Thanks to Durden’s stamina and dedication to pace, he has yet to lose a UFC fight that has gone three rounds, although getting there can be an issue. Durden’s lack of defensive awareness has caused him to suffer from abrupt finishes, especially when trying to take aggressive submission artists to the mat. That seems like a clear liability here, given Schnell’s craftiness on the mat. It wouldn’t be a shock if Schnell landed a triangle choke, which is one of his best moves. The choice fell on Schnell via submission in the first round.

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Burns vs. Brady
Silva vs. Andrade
Garcia vs. Nelson
Schnell vs Durden
Peek vs Ashmoz
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Eliminations