Chikadze vs Brito Prediction 19 September 2026
💪 On the preliminary card of UFC 331 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, featherweights Giga Chikadze and Joanderson Brito are set to square off. For the Georgian striker, this bout marks a make-or-break moment following three consecutive losses and a lengthy layoff. The Brazilian, meanwhile, enters the Octagon riding a wave of momentum, eager to build on his recent wins and claim a high-profile scalp.
Giga Chikadze Player Overview
The 38-year-old Georgian veteran Giga Chikadze enters the bout with a professional record of 15 wins and 6 losses. An elite-level kickboxing specialist, Chikadze burst onto the scene with an impressive six-fight winning streak in the promotion. However, he now finds himself in the toughest stretch of his career, having suffered defeats to Allen, Onama, and Vallejos. After a punishing knockout loss to the Argentine prospect at the end of 2025, Giga spent significant time recovering and focusing on his defensive skills. Stylistically, his greatest assets remain his phenomenal kicks to all levels, his ability to strike from range, and his wealth of competitive experience.
Match Results: Giga Chikadze
Joanderson Brito Player Overview
31-year-old Brazilian finisher Joanderson Brito boasts an impressive record of 19 wins, 5 losses, and 1 draw. Brito is a notoriously dangerous starter, racking up 16 stoppage victories-11 of which came in the opening round. Since joining the UFC roster in 2022, he has already claimed the scalps of several tough opponents and holds a win over Diego Lopes from his Contender Series days. Currently, Joanderson is riding a solid two-fight winning streak, having dispatched Isaac Thomson and Jordan Leavitt. The Brazilian is renowned for his powerful overhands, physical strength, and relentless pursuit of the guillotine choke in the stand-up exchanges.
Match Results: Joanderson Brito
⭐ Editor's Pick
While Brito is known as a dangerous starter and finisher, Giga Chikadze’s ability to control distance and keep opponents out of striking range should prove decisive. After suffering a tough knockout last time out, the Georgian fighter is unlikely to get drawn into wild exchanges-expect him to open with a cool head, relying on front kicks and jabs to dictate the pace. Joanderson is well aware of the threat posed by Chikadze’s signature liver kick, so it’s unlikely he’ll charge in recklessly. The Brazilian will need to expend energy closing the gap and working for clinches against the cage, which will inevitably slow the overall tempo. This tactical approach makes it highly likely the fight goes past the halfway mark. Our pick: over 1.5 rounds.
