Preview: UFC on ESPN 50 Prelims

Flyweights

Jake Hadley (10-1, 2-1 UFC) vs. Cody Durden (15-4-1, 4-2-1 UFC)

ODDS: Hadley (-198), Durden (+164)

This should be an entertaining scrap between two flyweights who are hitting their stride. Hadley impressed in his 2021 win on Dana White’s Contender Series, but his subsequent signing came with some controversy. Hadley missed weight—normally a disqualification for a contract on its own—and apparently caused some behind-the-scenes issues, only for UFC President Dana White to overrule everyone’s concerns and sign him to a deal. With that background, Hadley’s debut was a disappointingly flat loss to Allan Nascimento, but he has since regained his form in two impressive wins within the last year. Along with his typically strong grappling, Hadley’s striking has snapped back to make him a much more well-rounded offensive threat. Next up, Hadley takes on a late replacement in Durden, who also overcame a rough start to his UFC career to find himself on a bit of a hot streak. Durden rode a weak slate of competition to a late-notice UFC opportunity in 2020, which in turn led to a rough adjustment period, as the Covington, Georgia, native found himself unprepared when opponents could counter his aggressive offense. However, Durden has settled into a groove, mostly by doubling down on a powerful wrestling game that has neutralized his last few opponents, with the caveat that he can sometimes struggle to keep pace after 15 minutes of a hard-fought grind. Durden could just grind this one out again, particularly since Hadley is willing to hunt for submissions from his back. However, the bet is that Hadley is talented enough on the mat and powerful enough on the feet to eventually force Durden into some bad decisions, even if the Brit’s win will need to take place in the form of a comeback. The pick is Hadley via second-round submission.

Continue Reading »
Phillips vs. Barcelos
Wells vs. Harris
Quarantillo vs. Jackson
Hadley vs. Durden
Woodson vs. Buzukja
Almabaev vs. Osbourne