Kody Steele enters the UFC 333 preliminary card with a singular mission: securing his maiden victory in the Octagon. The 31-year-old welterweight, who previously competed in Bellator and The Ultimate Fighter 26, has struggled to find his footing in the UFC, dropping his last two bouts. Facing off against the gritty and durable Josh Gugnon, Steele must leverage his superior striking range and takedown defense to avoid another early submission or knockout.
Can the former Bellator contender finally break through in the UFC?
Gugnon presents a significant puzzle for Steele, as the 35-year-old veteran is known for his relentless pressure and ability to survive high-stakes moments. Gugnon’s record shows a fighter who rarely quits, often dragging opponents into deep waters where his conditioning and mental toughness shine. For Steele, the key takeaway from his previous losses is the need to control the pace; if he allows Gugnon to set the tempo, the fight will likely end in the later rounds or via decision, a scenario Steele cannot afford given his current standing.
This bout is pivotal for Steele’s career trajectory, as a loss here could see him released from the organization. Analysts predict a competitive back-and-forth affair, but Steele’s technical edge in wrestling gives him the slight advantage if he stays disciplined. Fans should watch for Steele’s ability to keep the fight standing and utilize his jab to create separation, as this will be the deciding factor in whether he returns to the win column or exits the UFC.
Source: Sherdog
