FREE 09/27 UFC Cheat Sheet: Top DFS Plays

UFC Perth presents an intriguing mix of pricing challenges and value opportunities across 26 fighters. With an $8,100 average salary and only three fighters projected for heavy ownership above 30%, there’s solid leverage potential throughout the card. The main event between Ulberg and Reyes anchors the slate, though Ulberg’s premium pricing may force some difficult roster construction decisions for those looking to pay up at the top.

The slate offers five legitimate 8x+ value candidates, creating multiple paths to optimal builds despite some inflated salaries in key spots. Fighters like Crute and Matthews carry significant upside but come with question marks that should keep ownership manageable. With several competitive matchups featuring tight odds, there’s scoring potential up and down the card for those willing to dig into the right spots. Let’s break down our top plays for this slate.

Premium Tier ($9,000-$10,000)

Top Play: Navajo Stirling ($9,100)

Stirling continues his perfect professional record while showcasing the complete skill set that makes him dangerous at light heavyweight. His recent unanimous decision victory over Ivan Erslan demonstrated his evolving fight IQ, as he dominated with a 110-36 advantage in significant strikes while mixing in three successful takedowns and over three minutes of control time. The 6-foot-4 frame gives him natural advantages in the division, and his willingness to adapt mid-fight when facing adversity shows the kind of problem-solving ability that leads to consistent fantasy production.

His striking volume has been exceptional through two UFC appearances, and the late-fight knockdown against Erslan highlighted his finishing potential that can deliver tournament-winning upside. Stirling’s ability to control fights through multiple phases creates a reliable scoring floor through significant strikes, takedowns, and ground control time. At $9,100 with 33.6% optimal lineup inclusion, he offers the perfect combination of proven performance and moderate ownership that makes him an ideal cornerstone play for GPP construction.

Other Premium Options

• Carlos Ulberg ($9,300, Own: 28.4%)
• Jake Matthews ($9,600, Own: 34.9%)

Mid-Range Tier ($8,000-$8,999)

Top Play 1: Brando Pericic ($8,800)

Pericic brings elite training pedigree from City Kickboxing into his UFC debut, having developed alongside champions like Israel Adesanya and Dan Hooker in one of the sport’s premier camps. The 31-year-old heavyweight has finished all five of his professional fights in regional competition, demonstrating the finishing ability that translates directly to DFS upside. His debut comes in front of a home crowd in Australia, creating additional motivation and energy that often elevates fighters beyond their typical performance levels.

The matchup against fellow debutant Elisha Ellison sets up perfectly for Pericic’s aggressive finishing style, as both fighters enter with limited professional experience but maximum urgency to make an impression. At $8,800, his salary reflects reasonable pricing for a heavyweight with legitimate knockout potential, while his 37% optimal rate indicates strong mathematical backing from projection models. The home country debut narrative combined with his camp’s track record of preparing fighters for big moments makes Pericic an excellent tournament play with both floor and ceiling appeal.

Top Play 2: Jimmy Crute ($8,900)

Crute has rediscovered his finishing ability after breaking a lengthy winless streak with a dominant first-round submission victory over Marcin Prachnio. His wrestling-heavy approach neutralized a dangerous striker, landing three takedowns before securing the armbar finish at 4:42 of the opening frame. The performance showcased his improved fight IQ, utilizing his grappling skills to avoid prolonged exchanges where his cardio concerns could surface.

The $8,900 price point reflects strong value considering his 33% optimal lineup rate significantly exceeds his 27.6% projected ownership. Crute’s submission skills provide immediate finishing upside, while his wrestling control creates a reliable scoring floor through takedowns and ground time. Facing an opponent still searching for his first UFC victory, Crute enters as a significant favorite with momentum from ending his drought and the confidence that comes with remembering how to close fights efficiently.

Other Mid-Range Options

• Justin Tafa ($8,400, Own: 12.1%)
• Josias Musasa ($8,700, Own: 24.0%)

Value Tier ($7,000-$7,999)

Top Play: Charlie Campbell ($7,600)

Campbell continues to deliver consistent performances since joining the UFC, maintaining a perfect 2-0 record with his most recent unanimous decision victory over Trevor Peek showcasing his well-rounded skill set. His ability to control fights through measured striking and solid defensive wrestling has translated into reliable fantasy scoring, while his cardio advantage allows him to maintain pace throughout all three rounds. The step-up opportunity against Nolan represents exactly the type of matchup where Campbell’s technical approach and fight IQ create multiple scoring avenues.

The $7,600 price point provides excellent value for a fighter who has demonstrated a strong floor through consistent output and fight control. Campbell’s striking accuracy combined with his takedown defense creates a reliable foundation for fantasy production, while his finishing ability adds the upside needed for tournament success. Facing an opponent coming off a layoff, Campbell’s activity advantage and momentum from his recent performances position him perfectly to capitalize on this prime spot matchup.

Other Value Options

• Louie Sutherland ($7,800, Own: 23.4%)
• Cam Rowston ($7,700, Own: 13.6%)

Make sure to check the Lineup Optimizer for latest updates before lock. Visit DFS Hero for our full suite of DFS tools including the Lineup Optimizer, Contest Simulator, Fighter Projections, and Ownership Projections. Use code HEROPLAY15 to get 15% off your first month!