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The UFC lands in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, this Saturday with an 11-fight card that promises intense action. The main event features former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker against Ikram Aliskerov. This bout will take place at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh and will be broadcast from 3 p.m. ET (2 p.m. CT in Mexico) on ABC/ESPN Deportes/ESPN+, with preliminaries starting at 12 p.m. ET (11 a.m. CT in Mexico) on ESPN Deportes/ESPN/ESPN+ in the US.
Main Event Analysis: Robert Whittaker vs. Ikram Aliskerov
Robert Whittaker (26-7)
Whittaker, a former UFC champion, comes into this fight after a unanimous decision win over Paulo Costa in February 2024. He is currently ranked fourth in the 185-pound division by ESPN and third in the official UFC rankings. A win this weekend could bring him closer to another title shot. Whittaker stands out for his speed and experience in five-round fights, giving him a considerable advantage over Aliskerov.
Ikram Aliskerov (15-1)
Aliskerov has strung together seven consecutive victories, the last two in UFC events. This Russian fighter stepped in for this card just last week after Khamzat Chimaev withdrew due to a stomach infection. Aliskerov is known for his striking power and ability to stay in the fight until the right moment for a decisive strike.
Prediction:
- Robert Whittaker (-135): He will use his speed and experience to keep Aliskerov at a distance and control the pace of the fight. Betting recommendation: Whittaker to win.
Main Card Fights
Sergei Pavlovich vs. Alexander Volkov
Sergei Pavlovich (17-1)
Pavlovich has proven to be a formidable contender in the heavyweight division. With a five-fight winning streak, his powerful punches have placed him third in the rankings.
Alexander Volkov (35-10)
Volkov, known for his reach and technique, has won three of his last five fights. He is currently ranked fifth in the heavyweight division.
Prediction:
- Sergei Pavlovich (-250): His power and recent momentum make him the favorite. Betting recommendation: Pavlovich to win.
Johnny Walker vs. Volkan Oezdemir
Johnny Walker (20-7)
Walker has had a career full of ups and downs, but his recent victories show his ability to surprise opponents with his explosiveness.
Volkan Oezdemir (18-8)
Oezdemir, known for his brute strength and solid technique, seeks to re-establish himself in the light heavyweight division.
Prediction:
- Johnny Walker (-110): His versatility and aggressiveness give him a slight edge. Betting recommendation: Walker to win.
Kelvin Gastelum vs. Daniel Rodriguez
Kelvin Gastelum (17-8)
Gastelum, a UFC veteran, is always a threat with his aggressive fighting style and ability to take punches.
Daniel Rodriguez (17-4)
Rodriguez, known for his precise striking, has performed impressively in his recent fights.
Prediction:
- Kelvin Gastelum (-150): His experience and toughness give him an advantage. Betting recommendation: Gastelum to win.
Muhammad Naimov vs. Felipe Lima
Muhammad Naimov (3-0-0)
Naimov, an undefeated Tajik fighter, excels with his ground skills and a flawless record in the octagon.
Felipe Lima (2-0-0)
Lima, a Brazilian representative, stands out for his aggressive approach and striking abilities.
Data Almanac
Bet on the Winner: Robert Whittaker
- Odds: 1.63 (61% chance of success)
- Analysis: Whittaker has a clear advantage in speed and experience in five-round fights, making him the favorite against Aliskerov, who has taken the fight on short notice.
Bet on Over 2.5 Rounds in Whittaker vs. Aliskerov
- Odds: 2.10 (48% chance of success)
- Analysis: Considering the durability of both fighters and Whittaker’s strategy to maintain distance, the fight is likely to extend beyond 2.5 rounds.
Bet on the Winner: Sergei Pavlovich
- Odds: 1.40 (71% chance of success)
- Analysis: Pavlovich, with his power and winning streak, has a significant advantage over Volkov.
Bet on the Winner: Johnny Walker
- Odds: 1.90 (52% chance of success)
- Analysis: Walker has a slight edge due to his versatility and explosiveness in the octagon.
Bet on the Winner: Kelvin Gastelum
- Odds: 1.67 (60% chance of success)
- Analysis: Gastelum, with his experience and toughness, has the advantage over Rodriguez.
Bet on Winner: Muhammad Naimov
- Odds: 1.80 (55% chance of success)
- Analysis: Naimov, with his undefeated record and dominant ground skills, is favored to win against Felipe Lima.
Combo Bet: Muhammad Naimov Winner + Under 3 Rounds
- Odds: 2.50 (45% chance of success)
- Analysis: This combo combines Naimov’s victory with the prediction that the fight could end in under three rounds, leveraging his aggressiveness and ability to finish early.
Combo Bet: Whittaker to Win + Over 2.5 Rounds
- Odds: 3.50 (40% chance of success)
- Analysis: A combo that maximizes value by combining Whittaker’s victory with the likely duration of the fight.
Play Responsibly
Always remember to bet responsibly. UFC events can be unpredictable, and it’s important to consider all factors before placing a bet. Keep the fun and avoid unnecessary risks.
