Listen, picks and bets are not the same thing. I am saying that very specifically here because I will pick Cody. He is the better striker, has solid foot work and solid wrestling, but i would never bet on Cody Garbrandt in 2026, thats an insane thing to do. He's 34 in human years 64 in fight years and just lost to a 94 year old. Cody is the pick, but my money will be far far away.

Cody Garbrandt

Cody Garbrant is notably the former bantamweight champion who has had some highs and lows these last 5 years. He is a phenomenal boxer with fantastic footwork and real power. When he is on, he is unbelievable with great footwork, clean striking and and the threat of wrestling. But when he's off, he is throwing punches wild with his chin in the air begging to get knocked out. He is coming off the lackluster loss to Roani Barcelos

Long Xiao

Long Xiao is a grappler who isn't particularly dangerous but is very durable. He has a ton of experience with 37 fights and carries that composure with him. He doesn't panic if things aren't going well and despite his record, things don't go well for him pretty often. He can be taken down, he can be touched up, he can struggle with guys who pressure forward. But he typically finds ways to win and will occasionally take a “wrestle at all costs” approach. He is coming off the sketchy decision loss to Su Young You where there striking was sloppy, but I think he won.