UFC 294: Makhachev vs. Volkanovski 2

Angelo picks Islam Makhachev, calling him a discount at -170. He thinks Islam will be all-in on wrestling this time, unlike the first fight where he took Volkanovski lightly. He notes Volkanovski is coming off the couch with no camp, while Islam had a full camp. He expects Islam to tire Volkanovski and win more decisively. He considers Islam safe to parlay.

Big Brady picks Islam Makhachev to win by dominant decision. He notes that Volkanovski is coming off elbow surgery on short notice, while Makhachev is improving, especially in striking. In their first fight, Makhachev clearly won and controlled the grappling. Brady expects Makhachev to take Volkanovski's back and ride out rounds, winning a clear decision.

Cody picks Makhachev, emphasizing that Volkanovski is coming off the couch and had surgery, so he won't be at his best. He notes that Makhachev took Volkanovski down four times in their first fight and controlled him for eight minutes, and expects a similar or better performance in Abu Dhabi. Cody also mentions that Makhachev is in his prime and getting better, while Volkanovski just turned 35 and may not have celebrated his birthday properly.

Daniel picks Islam Makhachev to win, citing that Islam is more physical, dictates the pace, and has the hometown advantage in Abu Dhabi where a close decision will go to Islam. He notes Volkanovski's elite feinting game and durability but believes Islam's weight cut and fatigue issues from the first fight are mitigated by Volkanovski taking the fight on short notice. He expects a competitive fight but sees Islam winning, possibly by decision, though he doesn't rule out a finish.

James predicted Makhachev would win by KO, citing that Makhachev had hurt Volkanovski multiple times in their first fight and that Volkanovski's conditioning might not be there on short notice. He noted that Makhachev's ground and pound could come into play if Volkanovski faded. James was very confident, placing a 5-unit bet on Makhachev moneyline and a half-unit bet on the TKO prop. He also mentioned that he switched from betting Volkanovski in the first fight to Makhachev in this rematch due to the damage Makhachev inflicted.

Volkanovski is a live underdog despite short notice. He has already fought Makhachev once and knows what to change. He is a freak athlete who can give a solid 25-minute performance. Makhachev is unlikely to finish him, and Volkanovski's cardio and durability should allow him to win a close decision. The line is too wide.

Paul picks Islam Makhachev, citing that Volkanovski is coming off the couch and recent surgery, which diminishes his preparation. He notes that Makhachev is in full camp, younger, and fighting in Abu Dhabi where the judges may favor him. Paul expects Makhachev to control the fight with takedowns and ground control, similar to their first fight, and sees value in Makhachev by decision at plus money.

The MMA Guru picks Islam Makhachev by third-round TKO. He believes Volkanovski will be weaker and smaller than in their first fight because he didn't have a full camp at 155 and is coming off a 145 fight. He thinks Makhachev will be bigger and stronger. He predicts Makhachev will land knees in the clinch, eventually catching Volkanovski with a knee to the face. He also notes that Volkanovski is rushing back from injuries.

Angelo picks Khamzat Chimaev, citing the circumstances: short notice for Usman, moving up in weight, travel, and a three-round fight. He thinks Usman's cardio won't benefit him and Chimaev's wrestling will be too much. He is excited to see Chimaev's takedown defense tested but believes the factors favor Chimaev.

Big Brady picks Khamzat Chimaev to win by first round TKO. He questions Kamaru Usman's motivation and decline, noting his age (36), injuries, and poor performance in the second Leon Edwards fight. Usman is taking the fight on short notice and moving up in weight. Brady believes Chimaev will take Usman down and finish him, as Usman has rarely been on his back and looked bad when he was.

Cody picks Usman as a dog, arguing that Chimaev has not proven himself against top competition. He points out that Chimaev struggled with Gilbert Burns, who is a former lightweight, and that Usman is a former champion with elite wrestling and striking. Cody believes Usman's takedown defense will neutralize Chimaev's wrestling, and that Usman's jab and experience will carry him to victory. He also notes that Chimaev's lifestyle and lack of loyalty may affect his focus.

Daniel picks Khamzat Chimaev to defeat Kamaru Usman, arguing that Chimaev is on the rise while Usman is on the decline after his title reign. He believes Chimaev's athleticism, strength, and power are superior, and that the Burns fight humbled him and made him more mature. He notes Usman's cardio and durability but questions his knees and motivation, suggesting Usman is cashing out. Daniel expects Chimaev to show he is the next generation and win, possibly by finishing Usman early or outworking him.

James did not make a pick for this fight. He discussed the fight post-fact, noting that Chimaev dominated round one with a 10-8 but gassed out, and that Usman won rounds two and three on some scorecards. He expressed that Chimaev is beatable if he doesn't finish early, but did not state a pre-fight pick.

Usman is a former champion with high-level cardio, great wrestling, and improving striking. Despite short notice, he has been active and can stop Chimaev's takedowns, push the pace, and use forward pressure. Chimaev has question marks about cardio and activity. Expects Usman to win by decision, possibly with a third-round sprinkle.

Paul picks Chimaev, noting that Chimaev has been preparing for a big Paulo Costa and has had time to put on size for middleweight, while Usman is coming on short notice and hasn't added muscle. He believes Chimaev can use his wrestling and reach advantage, and questions Usman's durability after recent KO losses. Paul thinks Chimaev cruises here.

The MMA Guru picks Khamzat Chimaev by first-round TKO. He argues that Usman is used to a physicality advantage and has bad knees, and that Chimaev will walk him down and land a big power shot. He notes that Colby Covington was rocking Usman and that Chimaev is more dangerous on the feet. He also points out that Usman has no power off his back foot and no slickness, while Chimaev has close reach and will push him back.

Angelo picks Magomed Ankalaev, calling him one of the best light heavyweights. He thinks Ankalaev will slow the pace and fight his fight. He notes Johnny Walker's danger if he makes it ugly, but expects Ankalaev to earn a title shot. He considers Ankalaev a safe bet.

Big Brady picks Magomed Ankalaev to win by decision, though he expects a boring fight. He notes that Ankalaev has good wrestling, as seen against Jan Blachowicz, and that Johnny Walker struggled on the ground against Nikita Krylov. Brady believes Ankalaev will mix in takedowns, control Walker, and win a dull decision.

Cody picks Ankalaev, emphasizing that he should use his wrestling to neutralize Walker. He notes that Ankalaev has excellent wrestling and ground control, and that Walker is inconsistent and can be taken down. Cody believes that even if Ankalaev fights to his opponent's level, he should edge out a decision or get a finish. He also mentions the Abu Dhabi factor favoring Ankalaev in a close fight.

Daniel picks Magomed Ankalaev to win, acknowledging Ankalaev's superior technical skills and experience but expressing concern that he sometimes fights down to his competition. He notes Ankalaev's vulnerabilities, such as being dropped by Thiago Santos and leg kicks from Jan Błachowicz, and thinks Johnny Walker's leg kick game plan could be effective. However, he believes Ankalaev is on a different level and should win if he is aggressive, but he is not confident enough to bet at -350.

Ankalaev is one of the most complete fighters at 205 lbs, with high-level striking and wrestling. He can mix in takedowns to wear on Walker's cardio and slow him down. Walker is explosive but when unable to set the pace, he slows down and gives up positions. Expects Ankalaev to win a decision and earn another title shot.

Paul picks Ankalaev but is hesitant, noting that Ankalaev often fights to the level of his competition and has had close fights with lesser opponents. He worries that Ankalaev may not use his wrestling early and could get into a striking match where Walker's reach is an advantage. However, Paul believes Ankalaev's wrestling and the Abu Dhabi location give him the edge in a close decision.

The MMA Guru picks Johnny Walker as a big underdog, citing a feeling that Walker will finish Ankalaev in a weird way. He notes Walker's 7-inch reach advantage and wild style that Ankalaev hasn't faced recently. He recalls Ankalaev being dropped by Thiago Santos and thinks Walker's takedown defense is underrated. He believes Ankalaev doesn't use his grappling unless losing and that Walker's momentum and size will be key.

Angelo is confident in Ikram Aliskerov, noting his wrestling pressure and that he was preparing for a good striker originally. He thinks Alves has cardio issues and is on short notice. He expects Ikram to avoid a slugfest and control the fight with wrestling. He has Ikram in parlays.

Big Brady picks Ikram Aliskerov to win by second round knockout. He notes that Warlley Alves is coming up a weight class on short notice, has questionable cardio, and has been finished in the second round multiple times. Aliskerov is a heavy favorite and Brady expects him to overwhelm Alves as the fight extends.

Cody picks Aliskerov, highlighting that Alves is a front-runner who fades after the first round. He notes that Aliskerov has good wrestling and striking, and that Alves has been submitted and out-struck in recent fights. Cody believes Aliskerov will take Alves down and control him, leading to a finish or clear decision. He also mentions that Alves is giving up size and reach.

Daniel picks Ikram Aliskerov to win, noting his dominant finishes and wrestling, but acknowledges that Aliskerov went to a split decision with a low-level opponent, suggesting he might be slightly overrated. He describes Warlley Alves as a talented flake who can beat anyone or lose to anyone, and notes that Alves has fraud-checked prospects before. Daniel says it's a 'dog or pass' situation and that picking a -550 favorite is obvious, but he wouldn't be surprised if Alves pulls an upset.

Aliskerov is a big fan, impressed with his wrestling and improving hands. He can shut down Alves' kicking game by taking the fight to the ground, grinding him out, and doing damage from top position. Alves has cardio issues and slows down, so Aliskerov can find a TKO in the second or third round.

Paul picks Aliskerov, noting that Alves is on a two-fight losing streak, has poor cardio, and is a front-runner who fades if he doesn't finish early. Aliskerov is a natural middleweight with a full camp, while Alves is moving up on short notice. Paul expects Aliskerov to out-volume Alves and mix in takedowns, leading to a finish or dominant decision.

The MMA Guru picks Ikram Aliskerov, though he is not fully sold on him. He notes Aliskerov has good grappling and striking, and is in his prime with a full camp. He criticizes Aliskerov's split decision with Chad Hanam at Brave FC. He thinks Alves has taken too much damage and hasn't been active, so Aliskerov should win.

Angelo picks Said Nurmagomedov but fades the bet. He notes Gafurov's wrestling could be a problem, as seen when Kakhramonov dominated Said with takedowns. However, he thinks Gafurov might get sucked into a brawl, where Said's striking will prevail. He is wary of the clear path to beat Said via wrestling.

Big Brady picks Said Nurmagomedov to win by second round submission. He notes that Gafurov is reckless, gets hurt often, and has a questionable chin, while Nurmagomedov has power and a dangerous guillotine. Brady expects Nurmagomedov to hurt Gafurov on the feet, then snatch a submission when Gafurov shoots for a takedown.

Cody picks Nurmagomedov, emphasizing his well-rounded skills and ability to mix striking with wrestling. He notes that Gafurov gasses out and has been out-struck by lesser opponents, while Nurmagomedov has better speed, volume, and wrestling. Cody expects Nurmagomedov to drown Gafurov in deeper waters and win a decision or late finish.

Daniel picks Said Nurmagomedov to win, citing his length, explosiveness, and dynamic kicking style. He notes that Nurmagomedov has a gas tank issue due to his explosive style but believes he is on a different level than Gafurov. He respects Gafurov's heart and well-roundedness but thinks the athleticism and size disparity will be too much. He expects Nurmagomedov to win a decision but says Gafurov could raise his stock in defeat.

Nurmagomedov lacks output and assertiveness, relying on spectacular finishes. Gafurov has good forward movement, volume, and a wrestling game. He can set the pace and manage his gas tank better. As long as Gafurov doesn't get caught in a choke or knocked out, he can win by decision. He is a solid underdog spot.

Paul picks Nurmagomedov, citing his diverse striking, high fight IQ, and ability to adapt. He notes that Gafurov has poor cardio and has struggled against lower-level competition, while Nurmagomedov has shown he can compete with top bantamweights. Paul expects Nurmagomedov to use his speed and wrestling to outwork Gafurov, likely winning a decision.

The MMA Guru calls this a mismatch and picks Said Nurmagomedov. He notes that Gafurov lost to John Castaneda and Chad Anheliger, while Nurmagomedov had a close fight with Jonathan Martinez, who is very good. He believes Nurmagomedov is top-15 level and has higher finishing potential.

Angelo picks Muhammad Mokaev but fades the bet. He acknowledges Mokaev's 0% takedown defense and that Tim Elliott will test it. He notes Mokaev's wins are not as dominant as they seem (Gordon old, Duran took him down, Jafel Filho had a kneebar). He thinks Mokaev's offensive wrestling will prevail but Elliott could cause an upset.

Big Brady picks Muhammad Mokaev to win by third round submission. He notes that Tim Elliott has been submitted many times in his career, while Mokaev is a very good grappler with submission wins over black belts. Brady expects a competitive scramble but believes Mokaev will catch Elliott in a submission as Elliott tends to make mistakes.

Cody picks Elliott, echoing Paul's sentiment that Mokaev is untested and has shown holes in his game. He highlights Elliott's superior wrestling, scrambling, and striking volume, and notes that Mokaev's takedowns are often not held down. Cody believes Elliott's experience and ability to push a pace will lead to an upset, possibly by decision.

Daniel picks Muhammad Mokaev to win, praising his toughness, wrestling, and heart, especially his survival of a kneebar. He acknowledges Tim Elliott's veteran savvy and improved training camp but believes Mokaev's youth and ability to push through fatigue will be decisive. He expects an exciting scramble-heavy fight and thinks Mokaev can submit Elliott or win a decision. He notes that Elliott has stopped prospects before but believes Mokaev is a different level.

James was heavy on Mokaev submission, playing it in two degenerate parlays and also betting half a unit on Mokaev submission in round two and round three at big prices. He also bet under 2.5 rounds. He noted that Mokaev got the submission via arm triangle at 3:33 of round three, just missing the under 2.5 by 33 seconds. James was confident Mokaev would finish, as he saw it as one of his favorite spots on the card.

Mokaev has phenomenal scrambling ability and pushes a high pace. He stays ahead in scrambles and dominates from top position. His striking is flashy but serves to set up takedowns. Elliott is a legitimate test but Mokaev is skilled enough to win by decision. Not confident enough to bet at -600, but would consider at -400.

Paul picks Elliott as a dog, arguing that Mokaev is overvalued based on his record against weak competition. He notes that Mokaev has low striking volume and has struggled with cardio and takedown defense, while Elliott has fought elite competition and has a scrambling style that will frustrate Mokaev. Paul believes Elliott's experience and unorthodox striking will earn him a decision or even a split decision.

The MMA Guru picks Muhammad Mokaev by decision (29-28), but is hesitant. He thinks Mokaev has the reach advantage and is more dangerous on the feet, and can negate Elliott's grappling. However, he notes that Mokaev has had close fights and nearly lost to Jeffery Filho and Malcolm Gordon. He also points out that Elliott is a good bet by decision as a hedge.

Angelo picks Trevor Peek after initially wanting to bet on Yahya. He notes Yahya gets hit too often and doesn't wrestle well, while Peek has a granite chin and relentless pressure. He thinks Peek's toughness and forward pressure will be enough to win, even though Peek is not very skilled.

Big Brady picks Trevor Peek to win by first round knockout. He describes Peek as a wild, durable brawler with incredible toughness and cardio, while Yahya is just okay and has been finished in all three of his losses. Brady expects Peek to set a pace Yahya cannot handle and win a chaotic brawl. He also likes the prop of Peek over 77.5 fantasy score on PrizePicks.

Cody picks Peek, emphasizing his toughness and power. He notes that Yahya is a one-dimensional striker with no grappling, and that Peek's pressure will eventually land. Cody expects a KO, possibly in the second round after Yahya tires.

Daniel picks Trevor Peek to win, describing him as an elite brawler with durability and power. He notes that Mohammad Yahya has been dropped by lower-level competition and thinks Peek's firepower will be too much. He acknowledges that Peek can fade and is not technically sound, but believes Peek's durability and brawling style will prevail. He also mentions the possibility of hometown judging but thinks a finish would negate that.

Yahya is hittable and leaves his chin on the center line, which plays into Peek's power. Peek is durable and has better grappling defense than expected. Expects Peek to land big shots and find a knockout within the first two rounds. However, he feels queasy playing Peek at short odds due to his skill shortage.

Paul picks Peek, noting that Yahya is a local fighter with limited skills and poor grappling. He believes Peek's pressure, durability, and power will overwhelm Yahya, who has a weak chin and no plan B. Paul expects a KO finish, likely in the first two rounds.

The MMA Guru picks Trevor Peek by first-round KO. He was initially leaning towards Yahya but was unimpressed by Yahya's regional fight where he was dropped and outgrappled. He trusts Peek's chin and believes the fight will be a sloppy brawl that favors Peek. He notes Peek has good takedown defense and Yahya's grappling isn't good enough to win.

Angelo is confident Javid Basharat dominates this fight with his wrestling. He notes Victor Henry's win over a Brazilian national champion wrestler (Him Barcelos) but thinks Javid's timing, control, and flow from striking to grappling will be too much. He has Javid in parlays.

Big Brady picks Javid Basharat to win by decision, but expects a competitive fight. He notes that Victor Henry is being disrespected by the odds, as he has good cardio, toughness, and takedown defense. However, Basharat is younger, improving, and the UFC is pushing him. Brady believes Basharat can use wrestling to control the fight and win a close decision, possibly aided by judging in Abu Dhabi.

Cody picks Basharat but is hesitant, noting that Basharat is talented but untested. He acknowledges Henry's wrestling and volume could make it close, but believes Basharat's speed and mixing of takedowns will edge him a decision. Cody does not love the price.

Daniel picks Javid Basharat to win but considers the -625 line too high. He praises Basharat's skills and youth but notes that Victor Henry has never been finished in 30 fights and has incredible volume, as seen in his fight against Barcelos. He expects a competitive fight where Basharat edges out a decision rather than dominating. He calls it a 'dog or pass' situation and suggests a small bet on Henry might be worthwhile.

Basharat is one of the best strikers with elite footwork and pull counters. He will touch up Henry whenever Henry crashes the pocket with volume. Basharat stays within himself and sticks to the game plan, likely winning by decision. This is a horrible stylistic matchup for Henry.

Paul picks Henry as a dog, arguing that Basharat is overvalued and has not faced tough competition. He notes that Henry has excellent volume, takedown defense, and durability, and has fought higher-level opponents. Paul believes Henry's pressure and output will make the fight close, and at plus money, he sees value.

The MMA Guru picks Javid Basharat by decision, but notes that Victor Henry is a live underdog worth betting. He compares their common opponent Tony Gravely, noting Basharat had a clearer win. He cites Basharat's youth (28 vs 36), reach, and height advantages. He expects a competitive fight with a swing round, but thinks Basharat will do a little more to win a decision.

Angelo picks Abu Azaitar despite the age and layoff, citing his grit, pressure, and power. He notes that Sedriques Dumas gets taken down easily and was nearly finished by Cody Brundage before Brundage made mistakes. He expects Abu's wrestling and pressure to be too much. He is monitoring the line movement to get better odds.

Big Brady picks Sedriques Dumas to win by third round knockout, but hesitantly. He notes that Dumas is a favorite despite being unproven, while Abu Azaitar has had only two fights in seven years, shows poor cardio and wrestling, and throws one shot at a time. Brady cannot pick Azaitar due to inactivity and lack of skills, so he goes with Dumas despite his reservations.

Cody picks Dumas but is hesitant, noting that Dumas is improving but still has many holes. He believes Dumas's youth and athleticism will overcome Azaitar's inactivity and poor cardio. Cody expects Dumas to take over in later rounds.

Daniel picks Sedriques Dumas to win, citing his youth, athleticism, and hunger compared to Abu Azaitar, who he believes is not fully committed to fighting. He notes that Dumas is a heavy pot smoker and may struggle with withdrawal in Abu Dhabi, which could affect his performance. He also mentions Dumas's lack of travel experience. Despite these concerns, he thinks Dumas's trajectory is upward while Azaitar's is flat, so he picks Dumas but passes on betting.

Dumas has a good enough chin to deal with Azaitar's striking and can use his kicking game to stay at distance. He should drag the fight to the ground and do damage from top position, potentially finding a finish in the latter half. However, there are big question marks about both fighters, so he prefers to pass on betting.

Paul picks Azaitar as a dog, citing the suspicious line movement and Azaitar's wealthy connections in Abu Dhabi. He notes that Dumas is still raw and has poor fight IQ, while Azaitar is strong and has good judo. However, Paul is not confident due to Azaitar's three-year layoff and age.

The MMA Guru picks Sedriques Dumas by second-round TKO. He questions Abu Azaitar's commitment to the sport, noting his long layoff and age (37). He believes Dumas is in a do-or-die situation and has more talent. He also thinks Azaitar will try to strike with Dumas, which plays into Dumas's strengths. He mentions that Dumas has a long-range advantage and will catch Azaitar with his shots.

Angelo picks Anshul Jubli but thinks he is not a -400 fighter. He notes Breeden's poor takedown defense (taken down 9 times by Natan Levy) and good get-up game, but expects Jubli's constant pressure and takedowns to be too much. He is confident in Jubli winning but may not bet at those odds.

Big Brady picks Anshul Jubli to win by third round TKO. He notes that Mike Breeden is 0-3 in the UFC with two first-minute losses, while Jubli is a Road to UFC winner who impressed in his debut against Jack Cartwright. Brady likes Jubli's wrestling, control, and ground-and-pound, and expects him to break Breeden as the fight goes on. He also likes the prop of Jubli over 1.5 takedowns on PrizePicks.

Cody picks Breeden, echoing that Jubli's competition is weak and that Breeden has fought better fighters. He notes that Breeden has shown he can go the distance and outwork opponents, while Jubli has not proven his cardio or chin. Cody expects Breeden to win a decision or late finish.

Daniel picks Anshul Jubli to win, arguing that Mike Breeden is a journeyman ranked 233rd in the world and has been knocked out by low-level fighters. He believes Jubli is a legitimate prospect who can use his physicality to win, though he admits Jubli is green and will eventually be faded. He thinks this is a winnable fight for Jubli and that Breeden is not the guy to expose him.

James had a 3-unit bet on Mike Breeden moneyline at +235 and a quarter-unit bet on Breeden to win in round three at +2000. He noted that Breeden lost the first round but was still in the fight, and that Breeden's pressure and durability paid off in round three when he knocked out Jubli. James praised Breeden's dog mentality but criticized his fight IQ for barking instead of finishing earlier. The win cashed 12 units total from the moneyline and round three prop.

Jubli is the more active fighter with a BJJ background and long-range weapons. He should be able to complete takedowns and use volume to touch up Breeden. However, there are question marks about his level of competition. Expects Jubli to cruise to a decision win as long as he doesn't get clipped.

Paul picks Breeden as a dog, arguing that Jubli is untested and has faced weak competition. He notes that Breeden has fought much tougher opponents and has shown heart and volume. Paul believes Breeden's wrestling and striking will be too much for Jubli, and that the line is inflated.

The MMA Guru is very confident in Anshul Jubli, calling Mike Breeden terrible and not UFC level. He predicts a second-round TKO via ground and pound after a risky first round. He notes that the UFC is feeding Breeden to prospects and that Jubli is big and strong enough to take him down and beat him up.

Angelo picks Nathaniel Wood but doesn't love the odds at 3-to-1. He trusts Wood's durability after the war with Andre Fili and his takedown defense. He worries about Naimov's power and the fact that Naimov is untested at 145 with a full camp. Wood is not in any of his parlays, indicating lower confidence.

Big Brady picks Nathaniel Wood to win by decision. He highlights Wood's high volume (over 6 significant strikes per minute), solid wrestling, and ability to dictate where the fight takes place. The main concern is Wood's chin, as he has been dropped and finished before, giving Naimov a puncher's chance. However, Brady believes Wood will win a clear 30-27 decision if his durability holds.

Cody picks Wood, emphasizing his speed, wrestling, and volume. He notes that Naimov is a one-dimensional power puncher who lost to Colin Anglin. Cody believes Wood's skill set will overwhelm Naimov, but he acknowledges the power threat.

Daniel picks Nathaniel Wood to win, acknowledging that Wood is a much better fighter overall but is in a high-risk, low-reward spot against a dangerous opponent. He notes Wood's chin issues and the letdown spot after fighting higher-ranked opponents. He believes Wood should win clearly but warns that Naimov is KO or bust and could catch Wood. He still picks Wood but is cautious.

Wood is the more complete fighter with relevant experience. At featherweight, he doesn't have to cut extra weight and can use his speed and footwork to stay away from Naimov's power. Expects Wood to put on a masterclass from striking to takedowns to Jiu-Jitsu, winning by decision.

Paul picks Wood but is hesitant due to Wood's durability issues. He notes that Wood is faster and more skilled, but Naimov has power and could knock him out. Paul expects Wood to win if he avoids big shots, but he is worried about the chin.

The MMA Guru picks Nathaniel Wood by late rounds TKO, specifically in the third round. He argues that Wood's technical striking, high guard, and tucked chin will make it difficult for Naimov to land a knockout. He also notes that Wood's shorter stature will help him stuff takedowns and counter Naimov's big shots. He dismisses Naimov's upset win over Jamie Mullarkey because Mullarkey's striking defense was poor.

Angelo picks Victoria Dudakova but with low confidence, calling the odds a wild trap. He notes Jinh Yu Frey's experience and takedown defense but points out she is older, on a skid, and was knocked out a couple fights ago. He thinks Victoria's youth and pressure will be key, but if Frey's chin holds and she gets takedowns, Victoria might panic. He may bet the spread on Frey.

Big Brady picks Victoria Dudakova to win by decision. He notes that Jinh Yu Frey is 38, small for the weight class, lacks volume and cardio, and has only two UFC wins. Dudakova is younger, impressed on the Contender Series, and should be able to take Frey down and control the fight. Brady expects a straightforward win for the heavy favorite.

Cody picks Dudakova but is hesitant, noting that she is green and has limited skills. He believes her wrestling will be enough to beat an aging Frey, but he acknowledges the line is too high. Cody expects a close fight.

Daniel picks Victoria Dudakova to win, describing her as a prospect tester against Jinh Yu Frey, who is on her way out. He notes Dudakova's toughness and improving skills, and believes she can take Frey down and control the fight. He complains about the high line but thinks Dudakova should win comfortably.

Dudakova is younger, more explosive, and stronger than Frey. She has a strong wrestling and grappling game, with four of her seven wins by submission. Expects Dudakova to get takedowns, stay out of submissions, and dominate from top position, likely winning inside the distance in the second or third round.

Paul picks Dudakova but is hesitant, noting that she is one-dimensional and relies on wrestling. He believes her size and strength will allow her to take Frey down and control her, but he worries about her lack of volume and ground-and-pound. Paul sees value on Frey but sticks with Dudakova.

The MMA Guru sees this as a clear mismatch set up by the UFC to give Dudakova a win. He notes Dudakova's athleticism, size, and reach advantages, and points out that Frey is 38 and coming off losses. He believes Dudakova is simply a better fighter and that the UFC wants her to win.

Angelo is very high on Shara Magomedov, calling him a massive prospect and the next big thing. He notes Bruno Silva's power and BJJ but questions his chin after being dropped by Brendan Allen, who isn't a one-punch knockout guy. Angelo expects Shara to win by KO and mentions he has parlays including Shara. He is confident in Shara's striking and power.

Big Brady picks Sharabutdin Magomedov to win by second or third round knockout. He notes Magomedov is a powerful striker with all wins by KO except one decision, while Bruno Silva has looked off lately, taking heavy damage in the Pereira fight and getting dropped by lesser opponents. Brady believes Silva's durability is fading and that Magomedov will put him away.

Cody picks Magomedov, emphasizing his striking and cardio. He notes that Silva is a first-round KO artist who fades if he doesn't finish early. Cody believes Magomedov's pace and volume will wear Silva down, leading to a late finish or decision. He acknowledges the eye issue but thinks Magomedov has adapted.

Daniel picks Sharabutdin Magomedov to win, praising his dynamic kicking and clinch knees. He acknowledges Bruno Silva's power and experience, noting that Silva has 20 knockouts and could close the distance to land. However, he believes Silva's durability is waning after taking damage in recent fights, and that Magomedov's range and body attacks will be key. He calls it a 'dog or pass' situation and says he would not bet at these odds.

James bet on Sharabutdin Magomedov at -225, believing there was value as the line closed at -350. He noted that Sharabutdin beat Bruno Silva brutally for three rounds, winning 30-27 on all scorecards. He acknowledged Sharabutdin's poor takedown defense and get-ups but felt his guard was solid and his striking was elite. James considered Bruno Silva a tough opponent but thought Sharabutdin would win the majority of the time.

Magomedov's movement and speed advantage will allow him to touch up Silva from distance, stay on his bicycle, and roll with shots. Silva's power is a threat but Magomedov's durability looks good. Expects Magomedov to win by decision, playing it safe with the jab and leg kicks.

Paul picks Silva as a dog, citing Magomedov's lack of wrestling and his disability (one eye). He notes that Silva has fought tough competition and has power, and that Magomedov's regional tape shows he can be taken down. Paul believes Silva can make it ugly and possibly win by KO.