UFC FIGHT NIGHT 228: Means vs. Fialho 9/23/23 – UFC Fight Night 228 will deliver another thrilling encounter as Tim Means and Andre Fialho face off in a Welterweight bout set for September 23, 2023. This bout holds excellent significance as both fighters look to bounce back after recent setbacks. This matchup promises an engaging blend of styles, strategies and raw talent; both fighters bring unique talents into the Octagon to create an intriguing contest that fans and bettors should not miss. We aim to dissect each fighter’s statistics while providing comparisons and predictions for its outcome for those interested in betting. For free expert MMA picks, continue reading our analysis.
UFC FIGHT NIGHT 228: Means vs. Fialho 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+ |
Tim “The Dirty Bird” Means Analysis
Tim “The Dirty Bird” Means is an experienced striker with impressive offensive statistics. Averaging 4.93 Significant Strikes Landed per Minute, he stands out among stand-up fighters in his division with 47% striking accuracy and 4.93 Significant Strikes Landed per Minute. Additionally, his 75-inch reach gives him an edge, enabling him to strike from distances that others would find uncomfortable and land effective shots on opponents more effectively than most can.
Means does more than rely on his striking; he also incorporates an effective ground game. He averages an impressive 1.21 takedowns every 15 minutes at a 44% accuracy rate – even though he is not considered a grappling specialist! These stats demonstrate his versatile approach while his takedown defense stands at an impressive 65% rate, making him difficult for grapplers to overcome.
Means entered this fight having lost to Morono, dropping his record to 32-15-1 (1 NC). Yet his extensive experience cannot be underestimated; during his long career, Means has faced top opponents, amassing an arsenal of tactical and psychological knowledge which may benefit newer fighters.
Andre Fialho Analysis
Andre Fialho was less effective in terms of striking. With an SLpM rate of 3.02 and accuracy at 39%, his striking ability trailed behind Means. While he nearly had equal reach (74 inches), this didn’t translate to effective striking; as seen from his statistics.
Fialho’s grappling statistics do not inspire confidence. Averaging no takedowns per 15 minutes with an accuracy rating of zero per cent, his game plan revolves around stand-up fighting alone. While his takedown defense rating may seem acceptable at 60% against Means, this could prove detrimental in an encounter.
Fialho comes into this fight following his loss to Buckley, dropping him to 16-7-0 (1 NC). His average fight times (8:19) have been shorter than Means’ (8:54), suggesting fights which conclude more decisively, either for him or against him – suggesting less calculated fights overall. This may signal less strategic engagement.
Tim Means vs. Andre Fialho Stats
| Means | Fialho | |
| Wins/Losses/Draws | 32-15-1 (1 NC) | 16-7-0 (1 NC) |
| Average Fight Time | 10:05 | 8:19 |
| Height | 6′ 2″ | 6′ 0″ |
| Weight | 170 lbs. | 170 lbs. |
| Reach | 75″ | 74″ |
| Stance | Orthodox | Orthodox |
| Strikes Landed per Min. | 4.93 | 3.02 |
| Striking Accuracy | 47% | 39% |
| Strikes Absorbed per Min. | 3.61 | 5.59 |
| Defense | 60% | 50% |
| Takedowns Average/15 min. | 1.21 | 0.00 |
| Takedown Accuracy | 44% | 0% |
| Takedown Defense | 65% | 60% |
| Submission Average/15 min. | 0.2 | 0.0 |
Tim Means vs. Andre Fialho Betting Pick
Based on a comprehensive analysis, Tim Means emerges as the stronger contender in this matchup. His superior striking game, coupled with a more balanced grappling approach, provides him the tools to deal with Fialho’s one-dimensional striking-based strategy. Therefore, my pick for this fight is Tim Means. The odds at +146 for Means offer excellent value, especially considering his experience and broader skill set. In addition, Means’ adaptability and capacity to fight intelligently could be the crucial factors that tip this contest in his favor. Bettors should consider not only his statistical advantages but also his veteran savvy as key indicators of a probable victory.
Free Pick and Prediction: Tim “The Dirty Bird” Means +146.
UFC Fight Night 228 offers an intriguing Welterweight bout, featuring Tim Means and Andre Fialho, each looking to put recent losses behind them. While both fighters bring unique qualities to the table, Tim Means’ more well-rounded game and extensive experience make him a compelling pick for those looking to bet on this high-stakes encounter. For the free sports picks, look no further.