Iwo Baraniewski vs Alonzo Menifield 19 September 2026 Prediction

A promising prospect meets an experienced gatekeeper at UFC 331. Iwo Baraniewski is an undefeated, well-rounded prospect riding an eight-fight winning streak. Alonzo Menifield has considerably more experience at the highest level, with 11 wins in 18 UFC appearances.

Iwo Baraniewski

The Polish fighter had an extensive amateur career, compiling a 17-3 record. As a professional, he has recorded nine consecutive stoppage wins, including three in the UFC.

Baraniewski is a well-rounded fighter. On the feet, he throws combinations, hooks, and overhands. He is also effective in the clinch, where his knees are a major weapon. He completes takedowns with conventional double-leg and single-leg entries and can threaten with basic submissions on the ground.

Alonzo Menifield

Menifield has suffered several notable losses, but he remains competitive. After two knockout defeats, the American beat Julius Walker by split decision and then upset undefeated Oumar Sy. He lost his next fight to experienced veteran Volkan Oezdemir before defeating Chinese power puncher Mingyang Zhang in his most recent appearance.

Menifield is primarily a striker, though he also has solid grappling and can finish opponents with ground-and-pound. He relies on powerful hooks and overhands, occasionally mixing in low kicks. The American has strong takedown defense and capable wrestling. His main weakness is his defensive striking, as he often absorbs shots while trying to land his own power punches.

Notable Fights

Iwo Baraniewski: Knocked out Ibo Aslan, Austen Lane, and Junior Tafa.

Alonzo Menifield: Defeated Mingyang Zhang, Oumar Sy, Julius Walker, Dustin Jacoby, Jimmy Crute, and Misha Cirkunov. Lost to Azamat Murzakanov, Carlos Ulberg, and Volkan Oezdemir.

Stats and Trends

• Baraniewski lands 11.35 strikes per minute in the UFC while absorbing 8.65. Menifield has a lower output, landing 3.84 strikes per minute and absorbing 3.81.
• Baraniewski has finished all nine of his professional fights. Menifield has gone to the judges’ scorecards only six times in 25 bouts. A fight not to go the distance is worth considering.

Baraniewski vs Menifield Prediction: Baraniewski to Win in Round 1

Baraniewski is the favorite, and the line is justified. Menifield has struggled against high-level strikers and has already suffered four knockout losses. Baraniewski is the more complete fighter. He is sharper on the feet, carries significant power, and can also secure takedowns and attack with submissions. The main pick is Baraniewski to win in Round 1 at 2.00.