Court McGee vs. Tim Means: UFC 307 Early Prelims Opening Fight Preview & Prediction17 days ago
The UFC 307 opening bout between Court McGee and Tim Means promises to be a gritty contest between two veterans of the welterweight division. Both fighters are coming off difficult periods in their careers, making this fight crucial for either man to reestablish momentum.

Court McGee («The Crusher»)

  • Age: 39
  • Height: 5’11" / 180 cm
  • Weight: 170 lbs / 77 kg
  • Record: 21-13
  • Association: Factory X

McGee is known for his durability and cardio, with an impressive 52% of his wins coming via decision. While not particularly explosive in terms of finishing power (5 KOs, 5 submissions), McGee excels in grinding out fights, pressuring his opponents with relentless forward movement. His last few outings have not been favorable, including losses to Alex Morono, Matt Brown, and Jeremiah Wells. At 39, his ability to withstand damage is showing signs of wear, but his wrestling base and solid grappling defense remain significant assets.

Court McGee - Last 5 Fights

  • Unanimous Decision Loss vs. Alex Morono – UFC Fight Night 240 (April 6, 2024)
  • KO Loss (Punch) vs. Matt Brown – UFC on ABC 4 (May 13, 2023)
  • KO Loss (Punch) vs. Jeremiah Wells – UFC on ESPN 37 (June 18, 2022)
  • Unanimous Decision Win vs. Ramiz Brahimaj – UFC on ESPN 32 (January 15, 2022)
  • Unanimous Decision Win vs. Claudio Silva – UFC Fight Night 188 (May 22, 2021)

Tim Means («The Dirty Bird»)

  • Age: 40
  • Height: 6’2" / 188 cm
  • Weight: 170 lbs / 77 kg
  • Record: 33-16-1
  • Association: Fit NHB

Means, a rangy striker, is a dangerous opponent standing, with 61% of his victories coming via KO/TKO (20 KOs). Though he’s had a mixed record recently, including a TKO loss to Uros Medic and a win against Andre Fialho, Means still possesses knockout power and a crafty striking style that can overwhelm opponents who aren’t careful. However, he has been vulnerable to submissions, with 44% of his losses coming via tap-out.

Tim Means - Last 5 Fights

  • TKO Loss (Punches) vs. Uros Medic – UFC on ESPN 55 (April 27, 2024)
  • TKO Win (Knee and Punches) vs. Andre Fialho – UFC Fight Night 228 (September 23, 2023)
  • Submission Loss (Guillotine Choke) vs. Alex Morono – UFC on ABC 4 (May 13, 2023)
  • Split Decision Loss vs. Max Griffin – UFC Fight Night 213 (October 29, 2022)
  • Submission Loss (Brabo Choke) vs. Kevin Holland – UFC on ESPN 37 (June 18, 2022)

Fight Breakdown

This fight will likely come down to whether McGee can impose his grinding wrestling game on Means, who prefers to keep the fight standing and use his reach to control distance. Means’ susceptibility to submissions could be a concern if McGee can drag him into grappling exchanges. However, if Means can keep the fight on the feet, his superior striking may prove too much for McGee, who is more limited in his offensive striking options.

Prediction

Tim Means’ reach advantage and knockout power give him a slight edge. Given McGee’s recent struggles against powerful strikers like Matt Brown, Means could find success if he keeps the fight at range. While McGee’s durability may allow him to drag the fight to a decision, Means’ striking should be the difference in this bout.

Prediction: Tim Means by TKO in Round 2.