The preliminary card for UFC London features an exciting lightweight showdown, pitting Welsh veteran Mason Jones against the unbeaten French talent Axel Sola. Both fighters are fresh off impressive victories in the UFC, making this bout crucial for their respective journeys in the competitive lightweight division.
Fighter Analysis: Mason Jones
Mason Jones is a former two-division Cage Warriors champion, having simultaneously held both the Lightweight and Welterweight titles. His foundation was built through judo competition, later complemented by professional boxing experience. Jones’s fundamental approach remains consistent, now enhanced by improved strength, conditioning, and renewed confidence following his second stint in the Octagon. In striking exchanges, he presents as a physically imposing lightweight, showcasing effective combination boxing in close quarters, solid midrange attacks, and a willingness to target the body. He also possesses an underrated grappling game, utilizing effective judo trips and throws, as demonstrated by his “Performance of the Night” finish against Bolaji Oki in September 2025. Fighting in front of a supportive home crowd at The O2 will undoubtedly provide additional motivation for Jones.
Fighter Analysis: Axel Sola
Axel Sola’s primary background and preference lie in kickboxing. Despite his long frame, he often performs his best work in tight spaces, unleashing rapid flurries of punches, including powerful body shots, frequently punctuated by short, chopping leg kicks. Sola is adept at using well-timed level changes; even if he doesn’t secure a takedown, he uses the feint to close distance, drive his opponent to the fence, and engage in effective dirty boxing. Despite his undefeated record, Sola enters this contest as a slight betting underdog, as this fight marks his official lightweight debut after previously competing in the welterweight division.
Tale of the Tape
| Fighter | Record | Style |
|---|---|---|
| Mason Jones | 17-2, 1 NC | Grappling-first, combination boxer |
| Axel Sola | 11-0-1 | Kickboxer, high-volume striker |
Mason Jones vs. Axel Sola – Fight Analysis
This bout shapes up as a classic striker-versus-grappler contest, with both athletes operating at a comparable overall skill level. Jones will likely aim to close the distance, secure takedowns, and control the rounds through dominant positional grappling. Conversely, Sola will endeavor to keep the fight standing, utilizing his speed and powerful hands to dismantle Jones from range. Jones is a methodical fighter who builds wins through intelligent, systematic control. He minimizes errors and avoids engaging in exchanges that don’t favor him, with his grappling providing a reliable backup plan. A crucial question will be Sola’s ability to withstand Jones’s takedown attempts over three rounds. Jones possesses the tools to neutralize Sola’s striking power with takedowns and inflict damage with ground-and-pound, including his potent elbow strikes. Of the two, Jones holds an advantage in high-level experience and likely a superior overall wrestling and grappling game, while Sola might possess a slight edge in hand and foot speed. If Sola can maintain the fight upright and sustain his offensive output, he certainly has the capabilities to win. However, Jones’s grappling prowess and strategic cage management across three rounds are expected to be the deciding factors.
When and Where
This lightweight bout is scheduled for the preliminary card of UFC Fight Night: Evloev vs. Murphy on March 21, 2026. The event will take place at the iconic O2 Arena in London.
How to Watch
The event will be broadcast live via Paramount+ and streamed through UFC Fight Pass, along with various regional broadcasting partners worldwide.
Prediction
While Axel Sola’s striking power makes him a dangerous opponent, Mason Jones’s extensive experience, strong wrestling pedigree, and the undeniable advantage of fighting in front of his home crowd should see him through to victory across three disciplined rounds.
Final Prediction: Mason Jones via unanimous decision