UFC FIGHT NIGHT 228: Malkoun vs. Brundage 9/23/23 – Mixed Martial Arts enthusiasts should mark September 23rd on their calendars as UFC Fight Night 228 promises an exhilarating Middleweight bout between Jacob Malkoun and Cody Brundage at Middleweight. Both fighters possess distinct fighting styles and performance metrics; Jacob Malkoun is coming off of a recent win, while Cody Brundage looks to come back after suffering defeat – these fighters promise an exciting and dynamic fight. For free expert MMA picks, continue reading our analysis.
UFC FIGHT NIGHT 228: Malkoun vs. Brundage 9/23/23 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, September 23, 2023 at 4:00 PM ET |
| Where: | UFC Apex, Las Vegas, Nevada, United States |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
Jacob “Mamba” Malkoun Analysis
Jacob “Mamba” Malkoun has become a formidable offensive threat in the UFC Middleweight division. Boasting an impressive Strikes Landed per Minute rate of 3.70, Malkoun can put opponents under significant pressure with striking accuracy estimated at 55%; more than half of his punches or kicks land their target! Malkoun employs an aggressive yet measured approach, which allows him to maintain high work rates without compromising efficiency, using jabs, hooks, and body shots his opponents find difficult to defend against.
Malkoun’s grappling statistics are no less impressive, if not more so. He averages an astonishing 7.46 takedowns every 15 minutes – one of the highest averages in his division – with 44% accuracy on takedown attempts. Yet, his relentless pursuit of them, using strikes to set them up quickly before closing distance quickly to initiate clinches or shoot for double legs, stands him apart. Furthermore, once his opponent is in position for submission or double-leg attempt, his control is fantastic, leaving little room for escape or counterattack from either party involved.
Malkoun recently secured an impressive win against Maximov, an opponent not to be taken lightly. This victory extended Malkoun’s record to 7-2-0 and illustrated his steady rise in form while adding another layer of confidence into his game. Malkoun demonstrated various striking and grappling skills, which will prove challenging for future opponents, including Cody Brundage.
Cody Brundage Analysis
Cody Brundage lacks Malkoun’s aggressive offensive game, boasting only a Strikes Landed per Minute rate of 1.79 and striking accuracy of 54%. While his accuracy might be similar, his much lower striking volume suggests Brundage might be at a disadvantage against Malkoun in stand-up fights; his conservative style often waits for counterstrike opportunities rather than initiating exchanges. This approach could make Brundage vulnerable against Malkoun’s high-paced offensive.
Brundage fares relatively well regarding his grappling skills, yet his stats don’t compare with Malkoun’s. Averaging 2.42 takedowns every 15 minutes at 47% takedown accuracy, Brundage can hold his own on the ground; his takedown defense at 73% could prove key in his game plan against Malkoun as this allows him to thwart takedown attempts and keep the fight standing where they may have more chance of victory.
Brundage recently faced Dumas and suffered his third loss on the way back to an overall record of 8-5-0. While losing is never ideal, losses often teach us valuable lessons; Brundage will surely use this loss to refine his game for the Malkoun fight in August. Brundage showed some promising signs of grappling and defensive skills that he’ll try to bring into Malkoun’s fight next time.
Jacob Malkoun vs. Cody Brundage Stats
| Malkoun | Brundage | |
| Wins/Losses/Draws | 7-2-0 | 8-5-0 |
| Average Fight Time | 12:04 | 7:05 |
| Height | 5′ 9″ | 6′ 0″ |
| Weight | 185 lbs. | 185 lbs. |
| Reach | 73″ | 72″ |
| Stance | Orthodox | Orthodox |
| Strikes Landed per Min. | 3.70 | 1.79 |
| Striking Accuracy | 55% | 54% |
| Strikes Absorbed per Min. | 2.64 | 2.18 |
| Defense | 50% | 46% |
| Takedowns Average/15 min. | 7.46 | 2.42 |
| Takedown Accuracy | 44% | 47% |
| Takedown Defense | 0% | 73% |
| Submission Average/15 min. | 0.5 | 1.2 |
Jacob Malkoun vs. Cody Brundage Free Pick
Upon careful examination of both fighters’ metrics and recent history, our pick for this fight is Jacob Malkoun. His superior striking and aggressive grappling make him a tough opponent for Brundage. The moneyline odds of -450 for Malkoun reflect the confidence of bookmakers in his winning potential. While Brundage’s takedown defense should not be overlooked, Malkoun’s overall stronger game is likely to see him through.
Free Pick and Prediction: Jacob “Mamba” Malkoun -450.
UFC Fight Night 228 offers an intriguing Middleweight bout between Jacob Malkoun and Cody Brundage. Although both fighters bring their own unique skills to the Octagon, Malkoun’s comprehensive abilities in striking and grappling make him the more probable victor in this matchup. For those interested in betting, Malkoun appears to be a relatively secure choice. For the free daily sports picks, look no further.