Road to UFC Season 4: Episode 3 Breakdown and Predictions

Lightweight, Jae Hyun Park (7-3) Vs. Jack Becker (13-5)

Jae Hyun Park

Park is likely getting this opportunity because he stepped in on short notice to save a bout on Road to UFC. It feels more like a favor than a reflection of where he’s actually at skill-wise. After that short-notice appearance, he was finished in the first round. While he did bounce back with a win in his last outing, it came against an older, inexperienced opponent. It’s hard to draw too much from that performance.

Wrestling is probably his strongest asset. He’s solid enough to exploit opponents with clear weaknesses on the ground. But on the feet, he’s a liability. Offensively, his striking is mostly functional just to close distance. Beyond that, his defense is shaky, and his chin has shown to be questionable.

Jack Becker

Becker was arguably the hottest prospect coming out of Australia back in 2021. He looked poised for a UFC debut before a devastating leg break in 2022 derailed his momentum—an injury that came in a fight he was likely about to win. After more than a year on the sidelines, Becker returned to action but didn’t quite look like the same fighter, going 1-2 in his comeback stretch.

However, toward the end of last year, he showed signs of resurgence. In a full-circle moment, he finished Aidan Aguilera—the same opponent he broke his leg against—reminding everyone of the potential that once had people buzzing.

Now a veteran, Becker brings experience and a well-rounded game to the table. He’s capable wherever the fight goes, though there are still some clear holes in his game. On the feet, he’s a striker first with a sharp jab and punishing leg kicks, likely his best weapon. While he prefers to keep it standing, he’s also competent on the mat. His wrestling is serviceable, but his entries can be telegraphed and lack explosiveness.

At this stage, Becker is a step behind in areas like speed, striking defense, and cardio—three factors that are crucial at the elite level. Still, his experience and grit make him a tough outing for anyone outside the top tier. Even in defeat, Becker is no easy win.

Prediction: It’s tough to see a clear path to victory for Park in this matchup. While both fighters have similar flaws, Park is nine years younger and still showing those issues against lower-level opposition, which is a concern.

On the feet, Becker is the clear superior. He’s the more technical striker with a wider arsenal, whereas Park may have more power, but lacks the polish. Becker’s durability also gives him the edge in any striking exchange.

Park’s best chance is to mix things up with his wrestling, but Becker is a savvy veteran who won’t give up takedowns easily. He’ll make Park work for every attempt and has the tools to punish him in scrambles.

Overall, I feel confident that Becker is the more well-rounded fighter. His experience, striking edge, and toughness should be enough to carry him through. I’m backing Becker to get the job done.