MMA Match Preview: Navajo Stirling (7-0) vs. Rodolfo Bellato (12-2-1, 1 NC)

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Venue & Event Details

Event: UFC Fight Night 260: Ulberg vs. Reyes

Location: RAC Arena, Perth, Western Australia

Start Time (Main Card): Approx. 7:00 PM AWST (local) / 7:00 AM ET (U.S.)

Broadcast: ESPN+ (U.S.), TNT Sports (UK), UFC Fight Pass (international)

Injury / Availability Report

Navajo Stirling (7–0, City Kickboxing): No reported injuries; cleared for competition. Still seeking his first UFC stoppage win after two decision victories.

Rodolfo “Trator” Bellato (12–2–1, 1 NC): Healthy entering the fight. Looking to rebound after a draw with Jimmy Crute.

Fighter Matchups

Navajo Stirling (27, 6’4”, 205 lbs, 79” reach)

Style: Striker with long frame, City Kickboxing fundamentals.

Strengths: Crisp boxing, high-volume striking (6.43 sig. strikes landed per min), solid takedown defense (78%).

Weaknesses: Still developing fight IQ, hasn’t shown finishing ability at UFC level.

Rodolfo Bellato (29, 6’3”, 205 lbs, 75” reach)

Style: Aggressive striker with grappling chops.

Strengths: High striking accuracy (61%), strong takedown defense (85%), proven finishing power.

Weaknesses: Absorbs a lot of damage (6.0 sig. strikes absorbed per min), defensive lapses.

Recent Form

Navajo Stirling (Last 3):

W – Ivan Erslan (UD)

W – Tuco Tokkos (UD)

W – Contender Series debut (UD)

Note: All wins by decision; still searching for first UFC finish.

Rodolfo Bellato (Last 3):

D – Jimmy Crute (Majority Draw)

W – Ihor Poteria (TKO, R2)

NC – Regional bout overturned

Note: UFC record technically 1–0–1, 1 NC.

Fight History / Series

First-ever meeting between Stirling and Bellato.

Betting Trends

Stirling:

All 7 career wins by decision.

Lands more strikes than he absorbs (6.43 vs. 2.49 per min).

Defends 61% of strikes.

Bellato:

8 of 12 wins by KO/TKO.

Absorbs heavy damage (6.0 sig. strikes absorbed per min).

UFC debut win was a stoppage, but cardio flagged in draw vs. Crute.

FIGHT ODDS

Navajo Stirling                  – 235

Rodolfo Bellato                + 185

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, September 26, 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.