RAC Arena, Perth, Australia vs Benjamin Johnston vs. Wes Schultz Prediction

FIGHT WINNER

Benjamin Johnston vs. Wes Schultz

⚡75%

Benjamin Johnston, fighting on home soil in Perth, Australia, enters his UFC debut with significant momentum, boasting a 5-1 professional record and a four-fight winning streak, all secured by finish. Johnston is a well-rounded fighter, primarily a Muay Thai specialist, but his record also shows a potent submission game, with four of his five victories coming via rear-naked choke. This versatility makes him a dangerous opponent capable of finishing the fight both on the feet and on the ground. Wes Schultz (8-3) is looking to bounce back from a disappointing first-round TKO loss in his UFC debut against Damian Pinas in February 2026, where he 'looked awful.' While Schultz possesses a strong wrestling background and earned his UFC contract with a rare Suloev Stretch submission, his recorded 0% takedown defense in the UFC is a glaring vulnerability. Johnston's ability to finish fights, combined with his home-crowd advantage and Schultz's recent performance and defensive grappling issues, gives him the edge. Johnston's height advantage (6'4" vs 6'1") could also be a factor in striking exchanges. Given Johnston's proven submission skills and Schultz's defensive struggles, a submission victory for Johnston in the second round is a plausible outcome after an initial feeling-out process.

METHOD OF VICTORY

Submission

Round: Round 2

75%

Benjamin Johnston, fighting on home soil in Perth, Australia, enters his UFC debut with significant momentum, boasting a 5-1 professional record and a four-fight winning streak, all secured by finish. Johnston is a well-rounded fighter, primarily a Muay Thai specialist, but his record also shows a potent submission game, with four of his five victories coming via rear-naked choke. This versatility makes him a dangerous opponent capable of finishing the fight both on the feet and on the ground. Wes Schultz (8-3) is looking to bounce back from a disappointing first-round TKO loss in his UFC debut against Damian Pinas in February 2026, where he 'looked awful.' While Schultz possesses a strong wrestling background and earned his UFC contract with a rare Suloev Stretch submission, his recorded 0% takedown defense in the UFC is a glaring vulnerability. Johnston's ability to finish fights, combined with his home-crowd advantage and Schultz's recent performance and defensive grappling issues, gives him the edge. Johnston's height advantage (6'4" vs 6'1") could also be a factor in striking exchanges. Given Johnston's proven submission skills and Schultz's defensive struggles, a submission victory for Johnston in the second round is a plausible outcome after an initial feeling-out process.

💰 Sharp Money

Sharp money might lean towards Johnston, especially if his well-rounded finishing skills are highlighted. However, if Schultz's wrestling pedigree is undervalued, there could be some action on him as an underdog. Line movement: Given the current information, expect the line to potentially move further in favor of Benjamin Johnston as fight night approaches, particularly if more analysis emphasizes Schultz's defensive vulnerabilities and Johnston's home advantage. Any news of injuries or significant weight cut issues could also impact movement.