Featherweight prospects Yadier del Valle and Connor Matthews are set to clash on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at UFC Fight Night 256 in Las Vegas. Both fighters are eager to make a statement in the UFC’s 145-pound division, with del Valle making his promotional debut and Matthews seeking redemption after a recent setback. This matchup promises to be an exciting contest between two fighters who came up from Dana White’s Contender Series.
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Yadier del Valle vs Connor Matthews Preview
Yadier del Valle enters the UFC with an unblemished professional record of 8-0. The Cuban fighter has showcased his versatility with two knockouts, two submissions, and four decision victories. His most recent win came against Antônio Monteiro on October 15, 2024, at Dana White’s Contender Series, where he secured a unanimous decision victory, earning him a UFC contract. Del Valle’s aggressive striking and solid grappling make him a formidable opponent for anyone in the featherweight division.
Connor Matthews, holding a 7-3 record, is looking to rebound from a third-round TKO loss to Dennis Buzukja in March 2024 and a first-round knockout loss to Jose Miguel Delgado in February of 2025. Matthews, known as “The Controller,” has a background in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and has secured five of his seven wins via submission. Despite his recent losses, Matthews remains a dangerous opponent, capable of capitalizing on any openings his adversaries may present.
Betting Insights
As of the latest odds, Yadier del Valle is the favorite, with odds from Sportzino putting him at -500. Connor Matthews is the underdog, with odds of +350. These odds reflect del Valle’s undefeated record and recent performances, as well as Matthews’ recent losses.
For bettors considering prop bets, the under 2.5 rounds option is listed at +105. This suggests that oddsmakers anticipate a possible finish in this bout, given both fighters’ tendencies to end fights before the final bell. Del Valle has finished four of his eight wins, while Matthews has seen eight of his 10 professional bouts end inside the distance.
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Yadier del Valle vs Connor Matthews Prediction
This matchup pits del Valle’s aggressive striking and well-rounded skill set against Matthews’ grappling prowess and submission acumen. Del Valle’s ability to dictate the pace and keep the fight standing could neutralize Matthews’ ground game. However, if Matthews can weather the early storm and bring the fight to the mat, he may find opportunities to exploit del Valle’s ground defense.
Considering del Valle’s recent performances and Matthews’ susceptibility to striking exchanges, my prediction leans towards del Valle securing a victory. His pressure and striking volume could overwhelm Matthews, leading to a stoppage.
Prediction: Yadier del Valle wins via TKO in Round 2.
Bettors might find value in backing del Valle to win inside the distance, capitalizing on his finishing ability and Matthews’ recent struggles against aggressive strikers.
