UFC Fight Night – Jake Matthews vs. Neil Magny: Preview & Betting Tips

Saturday’s welterweight clash between Jake Matthews and Neil Magny brings together two very different storylines in Perth. 

Matthews (22-7) has been in the UFC for nearly a decade, yet he’s still just 30 years old. Known for his well-rounded skill set, Matthews mixes sharp boxing combinations, consistent body-to-head variation, and reliable wrestling.

Magny (30-13) is the UFC’s definition of a gatekeeper. He is a skilled experienced fighter and is often used by the UFC matchmakers to test prospects or keep other veterans busy. With 35 previous UFC appearances, he’s just two fights away from tying Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone for third-most bouts in the promotion’s history.

Tale of the Tape

Jake Matthews – Odds 1.25 

Record: 22-7

Age: 31

Height: 5ft11

Reach: 73”

Weight: Welterweight 

Stance: Orthodox

Neil Magny – Odds 3.75 

Record: 30-13

Age: 38

Height: 6ft3

Reach: 80”

Weight: Welterweight 

Stance: Orthodox 

Jake Matthews vs Neil Magny: Analysis

On paper, Matthews has all the tools to push higher in the rankings. The issue has always been translating those tools into consistent success against established names.

Time and again, he’s looked dominant against lower-level opposition, only to fall short when stepping up. That makes Saturday’s fight a critical test; a win over Magny won’t put him into title contention, but it will be the type of veteran scalp that Matthews needs on his record to show he belongs in the division’s middle tier.

Magny is not the flashiest fighter, but he’s incredibly well-rounded. He uses his length effectively, works behind a busy jab, and can mix in the clinch and takedowns.

Even in his decline, he remains a difficult puzzle for anyone without elite composure or fight IQ. However, at 37 years old, the miles are showing; he’s slower, less durable, and while still competitive, it’s clear his days of contending are behind him.

This is a fascinating clash. Matthews is quicker, younger, and more dangerous if the fight hits the mat. If he can mix in takedowns with his striking, he could overwhelm Magny. On the other hand, Magny’s experience, cardio, and ability to make fights messy can frustrate opponents who fail to stay disciplined.

Matthews vs Magny: Prediction & Betting Tips

This is exactly the type of fight where Matthews has historically fallen short. Against names similar to Magny’s, those opponents that thrive in toughness and fight IQ, he has too often looked lethargic. 

That being said, Matthews is the clear deserved favourite in this one according to the oddsmakers, and I have to say I thoroughly agree. Though, that’s more of a reflection on where Magny is at now in his career. Of course, he won via KO last time out just a few months ago, but Matthews is a different style of fighter to Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos.

I’m willing to take Jake Matthews to win via submission at odds of 4.50.