Dustin Jacoby is set to return to the Octagon in a high-stakes clash against Brazil’s Bruno Lopes at UFC Vegas 91, scheduled for June 1, 2025. This light heavyweight showdown comes with serious implications, as both fighters seek to prove themselves as contenders in a division full of knockout artists. With Jacoby coming off a brutal KO win and Lopes riding a strong finish streak in LFA, the fight predictions for Jacoby vs. Lopes are sparking intense fan debates.
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Dustin Jacoby’s Comeback Journey
After a rough patch in 2023 where Jacoby dropped back-to-back decisions, including a controversial split against Khalil Rountree Jr., he came back strong. In April 2024, he stunned the division with a first-round KO win, reestablishing himself as a legitimate threat. That win silenced critics who doubted his place among the division’s top 15 and set up this bout with Bruno Lopes, a rising Brazilian powerhouse making his UFC debut.
Jacoby, a former Glory Kickboxer, holds a professional MMA record of 19–8–1 and has notched 12 wins by KO/TKO. His striking is technical, crisp, and punishing. He throws in volume, checks kicks efficiently, and controls the distance well. Against a newcomer like Lopes, his experience under the lights could play a major role.
Jacoby vs. Lopes Fight Predictions: Tale of the Tape
| Fighter | Record | Height | Reach | Style | Finish Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dustin Jacoby | 19-8-1 | 6’3″ | 76″ | Kickboxing | 63% |
| Bruno Lopes | 12-0 | 6’2″ | 75″ | BJJ/Muay Thai | 92% |
Lopes enters the UFC undefeated with 12 straight wins, 11 of which have ended inside the distance. The Brazilian is aggressive, with a dangerous clinch game and excellent submissions. He has never seen a third round, which suggests he’s either finishing fast—or may gas in deeper waters.
What Jacoby Needs to Do
Avoid the Clinch and Grappling Exchanges: Lopes is slick on the ground and dangerous in tight. Jacoby’s takedown defense, historically over 80%, must hold.
Control the Range with Kicks and Jabs: Jacoby excels when he’s first. Early pressure with leg kicks and stiff jabs could neutralize Lopes’ entry attempts.
Use Octagon Experience: Jacoby has fought and beaten seasoned UFC vets. Lopes hasn’t seen a UFC-level storm yet.
What Lopes Needs to Do
Close the Distance Fast: Lopes can’t allow Jacoby time to settle into a rhythm. He must shoot or clinch early.
Mix Strikes and Takedown Threats: Feinting level changes could get Jacoby to hesitate, opening up striking lanes or shots.
Stay Composed: Making a UFC debut under pressure is tough. Lopes’ ability to stay calm and execute could determine the outcome.
Final Thoughts: Jacoby vs. Lopes Fight Predictions
Expect an intense battle of styles: Jacoby’s polished striking vs. Lopes’ raw finishing power. If the fight stays on the feet, Jacoby has a major edge. If it hits the mat early, Lopes could surprise everyone with a submission. However, with Jacoby’s experience, cardio, and tactical game plan, the prediction leans toward a Dustin Jacoby win via TKO in Round 2.
Still, Lopes is a live dog, and his unbeaten streak shouldn’t be ignored. Upsets happen every weekend in the UFC. But stylistically, this fight favors Jacoby.
- Will Jacoby’s Octagon savvy outclass the UFC newcomer?
- Can Lopes keep up the pressure if he doesn’t get an early finish?
- Will this be Jacoby’s ticket back into the top 15?
Fight fans can’t afford to blink during this one.
Don’t miss Jacoby vs. Lopes tonight. Share your pick, place your bets wisely, and get ready for a wild ride at UFC Vegas 91!