MMA Match Preview: Cody Brundage (11-6-0) vs. Mansur Abdul-Malik (8-0-0)

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The main card of UFC Fight Night 256 features an intriguing middleweight showdown between Cody Brundage (11-6-0) and Mansur Abdul-Malik (8-0-0). This highly anticipated bout takes place on June 14, 2025, at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia, as part of the Usman vs. Buckley event.

Fight Details

Matchup: Cody Brundage vs. Mansur Abdul-Malik

Date: Saturday, June 14, 2025

Time: Approx. 7:00 PM ET (Main Card)

Venue: State Farm Arena (Atlanta, GA)

Broadcast: ESPN+

Fighter Breakdown & Key Stats

Cody Brundage (11-6-0, USA)

Height: 6’0″

Weight: 185 lbs

Reach: 72″

Stance: Orthodox

Fighting Style: Wrestling-heavy approach

Last Fight: KO win vs. Julian Marquez (March 2025)

Brundage is a gritty wrestler, known for his relentless takedown attempts and ability to grind opponents down. He has six knockout wins and three submission victories, proving his versatility inside the octagon. His experience in the UFC gives him an edge in durability, but he faces a dangerous undefeated prospect in Abdul-Malik.

Mansur Abdul-Malik (8-0-0, USA)

Height: 6’2″

Weight: 185 lbs

Reach: 79.5″

Stance: Orthodox

Fighting Style: Striking specialist

Last Fight: KO win vs. Abdul Razak Alhassan (July 2024)

Abdul-Malik is a powerful striker, boasting an 88% knockout rate with seven KO victories in his career. His ability to dictate the pace and land clean shots has been a key factor in his success. With a significant reach advantage (79.5″), he will look to keep Brundage at distance and avoid grappling exchanges.

Matchup Analysis & Betting Insights

Head-to-Head: First meeting between Brundage and Abdul-Malik.

Game Strategy:

Brundage: Needs to close the distance, secure takedowns, and wear Abdul-Malik down with ground control.

Abdul-Malik: Must keep the fight standing, use his reach advantage, and avoid Brundage’s wrestling-heavy attack.

FIGHT ODDS

Cody Brundage                 + 310

Mansur Abdul-Malik      – 420

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, June 13, 2025

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Fight Editor
Profile: A seasoned combat‑sports analyst with a deep understanding of the tactical, technical, and promotional forces that shape modern MMA and boxing. This columnist delivers comprehensive coverage that blends fight‑film study, statistical insight, and industry context to break down matchups, rising contenders, and the evolving landscape of global combat sports. Background: With extensive experience covering major promotions, championship bouts, and regional circuits, the columnist has contributed to national sports outlets and digital platforms focused on fighter development, coaching philosophies, and matchmaking strategy. A background in sports journalism and analytics supports a disciplined approach to evaluating performance, interpreting data, and tracking long‑term career trajectories across weight classes and organizations. Signature Coverage Areas: Fight previews and stylistic matchups Technical breakdowns of striking, grappling, and defensive systems Prospect scouting, rankings analysis, and divisional movement Promotional strategy, business trends, and event‑building dynamics Historical context, legacy discussions, and championship narratives Style & Approach: The writing emphasizes clarity, accuracy, and accessibility — translating complex techniques, tactical adjustments, and statistical models into insights that resonate with both long‑time fight fans and new followers of combat sports. Each column reflects a commitment to balanced reporting, thoughtful evaluation, and a deep appreciation for the discipline, strategy, and global reach of MMA and boxing.