Sean Woodson (12-1-1)
At 32 years old, Woodson is a long and rangy striker who utilizes his 6'2" frame to control the distance in his fights. Known for his precise striking, Woodson has a solid record with 8 decisions, showcasing his ability to outpoint opponents over the course of three rounds. While he has shown an ability to defend well on the ground, his weakness lies in his grappling, particularly when taken down and controlled by strong wrestlers.
Woodson’s game is centered around his striking, using his reach advantage to maintain range and pick opponents apart with precise shots. His defense has also been strong, though his ability to handle grapplers remains untested at the highest levels. He will need to avoid getting caught in Padilla’s submission game if the fight goes to the ground.
Last Five Fights:
* Win vs. Alex Caceres – Decision (Unanimous) at UFC on ESPN 56 (May 11, 2024)
* Win vs. Charles Jourdain – Decision (Split) at UFC 297 (Jan 20, 2024)
* Win vs. Dennis Buzukja – Decision (Unanimous) at UFC on ESPN 50 (Aug 5, 2023)
* Draw vs. Luis Saldana – Draw (Split) at UFC 278 (Aug 20, 2022)
* Win vs. Collin Anglin – TKO (Punches to the Body) at UFC Fight Night 197 (Nov 13, 2021)
Fernando Padilla (16-5)
Padilla, 27, is a submission specialist who has an impressive record with 9 submission victories. He has shown resilience and power, particularly in his most recent TKO win over Julian Erosa. His striking is not as refined as Woodson’s, but he possesses power and explosiveness, making him dangerous on the feet. However, Padilla’s true threat lies on the ground, where his submissions can end a fight quickly.
Padilla’s main strengths are his submission skills and his ability to capitalize on mistakes. He’s comfortable in exchanges but will need to close the distance and avoid getting outstruck by Woodson’s technical striking. His grappling could be the key to winning the fight if he can take it to the ground and neutralize Woodson’s reach advantage.
Last Five Fights:
* Win vs. Luis Pajuelo – Submission (Brabo Choke) at UFC on ESPN 53 (Mar 23, 2024)
* Loss vs. Kyle Nelson – Decision (Unanimous) at UFC Fight Night 227 (Sep 16, 2023)
* Win vs. Julian Erosa – TKO (Punches) at UFC on ESPN 45 (Apr 29, 2023)
* Win vs. Cameron Graves – TKO (Elbow) at Fury FC 46 (May 16, 2021)
* Win vs. Nate Richardson – Decision (Split) at LFA 99 (Feb 12, 2021)
Prediction
This fight is a classic striker vs. grappler matchup. Woodson will look to use his striking and range to keep Padilla at bay, while Padilla will be looking to close the distance and bring the fight to the ground. If Woodson can keep it standing and avoid getting taken down, he should be able to outpoint Padilla with his superior striking. However, if Padilla can land a takedown and work his submission game, he could secure a victory by forcing a tap.
The most likely outcome is Woodson maintaining his distance and picking Padilla apart on the feet. However, Padilla’s grappling will always be a threat.
Pick: Sean Woodson by decision.
