Venue: Mercedes-Benz Arena, Shanghai, China
Division: Lightweight (155 lbs)
Scheduled: 3 Rounds
Card Placement: Preliminary Card
Match Overview
Veteran grinder Austin “Thud” Hubbard takes on Chinese knockout artist Rongzhu in a stylistic clash that pits volume and durability against explosive power. With Rongzhu favored by predictive models and Hubbard known for his cardio and grit, this lightweight bout could be one of the most competitive on the prelims.
Fighter Profiles & Stats
Austin Hubbard (Record: 17-8-0 MMA)
Age: 32
Height/Reach: 5’10” / 71″
Team: Valle Flow Striking
Recent Form: L-W-L-W-L
Strengths: High-volume striking, strong cardio, submission setups
Weaknesses: Low takedown accuracy (21%), limited finishing power
Hubbard has faced tough competition and often goes the distance. He’ll look to wear down Rongzhu with pace and pressure, using his jab and movement to frustrate the power puncher.
Rongzhu (Record: 26-6-0 MMA)
Age: 25
Height/Reach: 5’9″ / 72.5″
Team: Enbo Fight Club
Recent Form: W-L-L (Win over Kody Steele, losses to Bahamondes & Padilla)
Strengths: KO power (15 finishes), fast hands, aggressive style
Weaknesses: Control time (0:50), submission defense
Rongzhu is a fan favorite in China with a reputation for early finishes. He’ll look to land heavy shots and test Hubbard’s chin early, especially in front of a home crowd.
Tale of the Tape
| Stat | Austin Hubbard | Rongzhu |
| Height | 5’10” | 5’9″ |
| Reach | 71″ | 72.5″ |
| Knockouts | 5 | 15 |
| Submissions | 2 | 6 |
| UFC Wins | 4 | 3 |
| Takedown Accuracy | 21% | 25% |
| Control Time | 10:50 | 0:50 |
Tactical Breakdown
Keys for Hubbard:
Push pace and volume over three rounds
Mix in takedowns to disrupt rhythm
Avoid early exchanges and wear down Rongzhu
Keys for Rongzhu:
Start fast and land power shots early
Use reach and timing to counter Hubbard’s entries
Stay off the cage and avoid grappling exchanges
FIGHT ODDS
Austin Hubbard + 210
Rongzhu – 260
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, August 22, 2025
