Damian Pinas vs Wes Schultz Prediction & Preview - 2/28/2026
Updated July 9, 2026
When middleweights Damian Pinas and Wes Schultz step into the Octagon at UFC Fight Night on Saturday, both fighters are making their UFC debuts. While Pinas enters as the heavy favorite based on his explosive finishing ability and striking prowess, Schultz arrives with a diverse toolkit that combines wrestling, submissions, and an evolving stand‑up game. This Middleweight matchup promises early fireworks as Pinas looks to make a statement, and Schultz aims to prove he belongs at this level.
Pick: Damian Pinas to win by KO/TKO ATS PRO
Confidence: 4 out of 5
Damian Pinas | Wes Schultz | |
|---|---|---|
Age | 23 | 29 |
Reach | 79" | 77" |
Stance | Orthodox | Orthodox |
Record | 8‑1‑0 | 8‑2‑0 |
Damian Pinas, often referred to as The Baba Yaga, has burst onto the MMA scene and carries an impressive professional record of eight wins and one loss into his UFC debut on Saturday. His path to the Octagon has been marked by a high finishing rate, with most of his victories coming by way of knockout or TKO.
At just 23 years old, Pinas has quickly developed striking skills that translate to early pressure and powerful attacks. His significant striking metrics indicate a high volume of offense with accuracy that often forces opponents into defensive positions early in fights. Although still developing his ground game, Pinas’ stand‑up strikes and aggressive pace have made him a dangerous opponent for anyone in the Middleweight division.
On the other side of the cage is Wes Schultz, a 29‑year‑old contender from the United States. Schultz also makes his UFC debut in this bout and brings a skill set that includes strong wrestling fundamentals and a respectable submission game. His professional record consists of eight wins and two losses, with a 1-1 record in two Contender Series fights.
Schultz’s takedown accuracy and ground control make him a threat if he is able to impose his will on the mat. While his striking defense has room for improvement, his experience and toughness could allow him to weather early storms and grind Pinas down if the fight extends into later rounds.
Looking at the stylistic matchup, Pinas’ striking volume and accuracy give him a clear advantage in the stand‑up department. He has shown the ability to end fights quickly, suggesting a high probability of this fight finishing inside the distance, possibly in the first round. Schultz, while a skilled grappler, must navigate a dangerous striking onslaught early to secure takedowns and potentially grind out control or look for submissions. If Schultz can survive the initial barrage and slow the pace, he may find opportunities on the ground, but that requires him to avoid serious damage in the opening moments.
Given Pinas’ superior offensive output and finishing instincts, I am expecting a Pinas victory by stoppage. Bettors seeking value may consider early fight props for Pinas, but caution is advised given Schultz’s grappling skills and ability to extend fights into later rounds.
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