Prior to each UFC card, Jay Primetown takes a close look at debuting fighters. In the latest installment, we look at undefeated Welshman Brett Johns as he makes his UFC debut against fellow undefeated bantamweight Kwan ho Kwak at UFC Fight Night 99. Brett “The Pikey” Johns Hometown: Swansea, Wales Age: 24 Height: 5’7” Reach: N/A Weight Class: Bantamweight Camp: Chris Rees Academy Career Record: 12-0 Key Wins: Anthony Gutierrez, Walel Watson Key Losses: none Background The former Cage Warriors and Titan FC Bantamweight Champion enters the UFC with an undefeated record. Outside of MMA, Johns holds a black belt in judo. Strengths
- Relentless pursuit of takedowns
- Great cardio
- Finishes takedown attempts very well
- Very good top control
- Transitions well on the mat into advantageous positions
Weaknesses
- Not a natural finisher
- Predictable striker
- Question mark how he performs if forced into a striking contest
Matchup against Kwan ho Kwak I’m really excited for this matchup between two solid prospects in the bantamweight division. The South Korean fighter is a solid athlete with a good all-around striking game. The Welshman is much more grappling-focused and utilizes his striking to set up takedowns. Both fighters certainly possess the skills to compete in the UFC. I favor the Welshman in this matchup because he does an excellent job converting his opportunities into takedowns. Kwak has decent takedown defense, but I don’t see him being able to stop Johns’ attempts with regularity. Once on the ground, Johns has a big advantage as he does a great job with maintaining top control and landing ground and pound. Kwak really doesn’t offer much off his back and I expect Johns to have sustained top control throughout the fight. Props aren’t available yet on this fight, but I will certainly be looking at Johns by Decision. I fully expect this fight to go to the scorecards. Over 2.5 rounds (-200) is a decent parlay piece for this card as well. UFC Ceiling Brett Johns is the type of fighter most guys do not want to face. He has a great gas tank, good technique in his takedown attempts, and is very good in top control. He may not have the best striking form in the world, but his style of fighting is difficult to contend with and ultimately leads to more wins than losses. Look for Johns to be a solid addition to the UFC roster and to do well against the lower half of the division. I could see him moving into the top 15 of the bantamweight division within a couple years; it will be dependent on just how dominant he can be on the ground. Fight Film Check out Brett Johns in some of his most recent fights: Brett Johns vs. James Brum (at 2:00:00 mark) Brett Johns vs. Ryan McGann