Belgaroui vs Santos Prediction 12 September 2026
📌 The UFC Noche middleweight card features a clash between two dangerous finishers with contrasting physiques and fighting styles. Towering kickboxer Yousri Belgaroui, standing at two meters tall, is set to face Brazilian fighter Jordan Santos. Santos steps in as a late replacement for the injured Kelvin Gastelum, having less than a month to prepare for this bout. Belgaroui rides an impressive winning streak and aims to extend his dominant run in the promotion. With both men known for ending fights inside the distance, this matchup promises to deliver fast-paced, unpredictable action.
Head-to-head statistics Belgaroui - Santos
Yousri Belgaroui Player Overview
The 34-year-old Yousri Belgaroui stands out as one of the tallest and most physically imposing middleweights on the UFC roster, measuring nearly two meters in height with a reach of 201 cm. He is riding an impressive five-fight winning streak, with four of those victories coming by way of clean knockouts. Belgaroui boasts an elite kickboxing pedigree, exceptional timing, and has made a habit of picking opponents apart from a safe distance. The Dutchman has finished four of his bouts within the opening five minutes, never allowing his rivals a chance to settle. With his tremendous reach and vast striking experience, Belgaroui is widely regarded as the favorite whenever the fight stays on the feet.
Match Results: Yousri Belgaroui
Djorden Santos Player Overview
The 29-year-old Brazilian, Jorden Santos, holds a professional record of 11 wins and 3 losses. Known for his balanced yet aggressive style, Santos has secured three victories by knockout and four by submission. However, his recent form has dipped, with two defeats in his last three outings. In his previous bout, the Brazilian was finished via submission by Baisangur Susurkaev, exposing vulnerabilities in his ground defense. Stepping in as a short-notice replacement, Santos will need to push the pace and look for creative solutions inside the cage.
Match Results: Djorden Santos
⭐ Editorial Prediction
The stark difference in the fighters' physiques will force Santos to throw caution to the wind and relentlessly close the distance from the opening bell. If he stays at range, the Brazilian will be an easy target for the towering giant’s heavy high kicks and straight punches. To avoid being picked apart on the feet, Santos will likely try to take the fight to the mat or drag Belgaroui into a gritty exchange at close quarters. In these wild scrambles, either Jorden could walk into a devastating counter from Belgaroui, or he might catch the Dutchman with a slick move of his own. It’s hard to see this bout going past the midway point of the third round, so the smart play is under 2.5 rounds.