UFC on ESPN: Strickland vs. Magomedov

Angelo picks Abus Magomedov despite Strickland being the favorite. He notes Strickland's high volume and takedown defense but believes Abus's power and versatility will be key. He expects Abus to win early rounds but acknowledges Strickland's pressure could wear him down. He mentions a potential plus 5.5 point buy on the scorecard for Abus.

Big Brady picks Sean Strickland to win by decision. He notes Strickland has faced much better competition and has five-round experience, while Magomedov has only one UFC fight. He thinks Strickland is the better striker, especially as the fight goes on, and Magomedov's only path is a first-round knockout. He expects Strickland to survive the early rounds and take over later.

Cody is shocked the line moved from -175 to -145, as Strickland is coming off a dominant five-round performance on short notice. He emphasizes Strickland's proven cardio, durability, and volume against elite competition, while Magomedov has only one UFC win over Dustin Stoltzfus and was knocked out by Lewis Taylor in PFL. Cody sees Magomedov's level of competition as far below Strickland's and believes the line is a trap but is willing to bet Strickland anyway.

Daniel leans Strickland due to his proven volume and output over five rounds, citing his 200+ significant strikes against Imavov and 150+ against Cannonier. He acknowledges Magomedov's power and finishing ability, especially early, but sees Strickland's pace and durability as key. However, he is not confident enough to bet, calling it a 'dog or pass' situation because Magomedov's decision record (5-1) and power make the outcome uncertain. He notes Strickland's output increases in later rounds, which favors him if the fight goes the distance.

James discusses the matchup at length but does not make a definitive pick. He notes that Abusupiyan has stylistic advantages in wrestling that Strickland hasn't faced recently, and that Strickland's pressure and experience in five-round fights are factors. He says he needs to do more tape before coming to a prediction.

Paul agrees with Cody, surprised by the line movement. He highlights Strickland's ability to go five rounds at 185, his volume (182 significant strikes in his last fight), and his ranking as #4 in the division. He notes Magomedov is not ranked in the top 15 and has fought mostly low-level competition. Paul believes Strickland's experience and cardio are decisive.

The Guru picks Sean Strickland, reasoning that Abus Magomedov's only notable win is over Dustin Stoltzfus, which is not enough evidence. He notes Strickland's experience and pressure, and believes if Magomedov doesn't finish in round one, his finishing rate plummets. He predicts Strickland will wear him down and get a late-round TKO or decision, similar to his win over Nassourdine Imavov.

Angelo picks Damir Ismagulov, citing his well-rounded skills, cardio, and ability to adjust. He believes Damir's striking is light years ahead of Grant Dawson's, and while Dawson is a good wrestler, he's not Arman Tsarukyan. He expects a razor-thin decision but thinks Damir gets it done. He avoids betting due to Damir's lack of finishing ability.

Big Brady picks Grant Dawson to win by decision, but is cautious. He notes Ismagulov has been dealing with injuries and looked off in his last fight, and has announced this is his retirement fight. Dawson has improved at American Top Team, with better striking and cardio. Brady thinks Dawson's wrestling and control will be key, and he can win a close decision, though he warns against being too confident either way.

Cody leans Dawson because of his wrestling and recent improvements, especially taking down Olympic wrestler Mark Madsen twice. He notes Ismagulov's takedown defense was exposed by Arman Tsarukyan (7 takedowns) and that Ismagulov fights to his opponent's level with low volume. Cody also mentions Dawson's cardio has improved, as shown by two straight third-round finishes. He considers it a close fight likely to go to decision.

Daniel picks Ismagulov but with low confidence, hinging on which version shows up after health issues and a brief retirement. He notes Ismagulov's striking is far superior to Dawson's, and if he can stuff takedowns (despite being taken down 7 times by Tsarukyan), he should win easily. However, he is concerned about Ismagulov's health and motivation, and reserves the right to change his pick after weigh-ins. He sees Dawson as a one-dimensional grappler with poor striking, but acknowledges his relentless wrestling and guillotine threat.

James leans towards Ismagulov, believing he should be about a 60% favorite. He thinks Ismagulov's striking is cleaner and that he can defend takedowns well, as he did against Arman Tsarukyan early. He notes Dawson's cardio issues and that Ismagulov's cardio is strong, but he hasn't finished his tape study yet. He also mentions the retirement concern but says if Ismagulov is still the same fighter, he wins.

Paul agrees with Cody, citing Dawson's move to American Top Team and his improved cardio and wrestling. He notes Ismagulov's retirement announcement and return, suggesting lack of motivation. Paul thinks Dawson's pressure and takedowns will be the difference, but acknowledges Ismagulov's cardio and durability.

The Guru picks Damir Ismagulov, citing Grant Dawson's struggle against Ricky Glenn as a huge red flag. He notes Ismagulov's ability to get back up and scrap, and predicts Dawson's takedowns will fail in the second round, leading to Ismagulov landing a straight right hand for a KO. He also criticizes Dawson's chin and teep kicks.

Angelo picks Michael Morales, highlighting his credentials as a freestyle wrestling and Muay Thai national champion. He notes Morales's footwork, forward pressure, and clean takedowns. He believes Morales's offensive wrestling will be the difference, though Max Griffin is a live underdog. He mentions the moneyline is already juiced and will wait for props.

Big Brady picks Michael Morales to win by decision. He is high on Morales but cautions against the -240 line, noting Max Griffin is a tough veteran who has only been finished once. He thinks the fight will be close and could go to decision, where the UFC's preference for the undefeated prospect may favor Morales. He also notes Morales has multiple paths to win, including a finish or a close decision.

Cody likes Morales' youth, power, and wrestling background. He notes Morales' wins over Trevin Giles and Adam Fugit show finishing ability. He acknowledges Griffin is a seasoned veteran but points out Griffin's low volume and lack of recent finishes. Cody thinks Morales' power and pressure will be too much, but he will watch the live market in case Griffin teaches him a lesson.

Daniel leans Morales due to his athleticism, youth, and potential improvements after a year off, but calls it a 'dog or pass' at -240. He acknowledges Griffin's experience, durability, and knockdown power, and notes Morales' defensive flaws (gets hit clean). He compares the situation to Jamahal Hill's loss to Paul Craig, suggesting a setback wouldn't ruin Morales' future. He is not confident enough to bet, as Griffin's plus-205 price is tempting.

James briefly mentions this fight in response to a chat question, stating he sees Michael Morales knocking Max Griffin out. He does not elaborate further, but the statement is clear and confident.

Paul thinks the market is about right. He notes Griffin was taken down three times by Tim Means and that Morales can mix in wrestling. He sees Morales as a high-potential prospect and is not willing to bet against him against an aging Griffin. Paul believes Morales will win, possibly by using his wrestling.

The Guru picks Michael Morales, despite some sloppy moments in his last fight against Adam Fugitt. He notes Morales's youth (24), reach advantage, and consistency, while Max Griffin is hit-or-miss and older. He believes Morales's talent is above Griffin's level and predicts a win, possibly a finish.

Angelo picks Ariane Lipski (da Silva) based on her last performance against JJ Aldrich, where her hands and wrestling looked great. He acknowledges the logical pick is Melissa Gatto due to Lipski's history of being outgrappled, but he goes against logic. He suggests a plus 3.5 point buy on the scorecard for Lipski as a safer bet.

Big Brady picks Melissa Gatto to win by first-round submission. He notes Gatto has improved significantly, with better striking and takedown defense, and has power. He points out that Ariane da Silva (Lipski) has been dominated on the ground by fighters like Montana De La Rosa and Antonina Shevchenko, and Gatto's top game is dangerous. He expects Gatto to get on top and finish early.

Cody sees Lipski as a live underdog. He notes Gatto's low volume (17 significant strikes in nearly 3 rounds against Eubanks) and poor defensive wrestling. Lipski showed improved wrestling at ATT and has high volume (101 significant strikes against Aldrich). Cody thinks if Lipski can stuff takedowns, she wins the striking battle. He also notes Lipski is only 29 and improving.

Daniel confidently picks Gatto, citing her superior heart, durability, and grappling. He notes Lipski's history of quitting when pressured and her poor defensive grappling, while Gatto showed toughness against Tracy Cortez, reversing positions and landing takedowns. He believes Gatto's chin and submission threat are key, and that Lipski's recent win over JJ Aldrich is overrated. However, he missed the opening line (-150) and won't bet at -230, but expects Gatto to win.

Paul is tempted by the CF dog model. He notes Lipski's last performance against Aldrich was impressive and that Gatto's wins are over low-level competition. He questions if Lipski has turned the corner and thinks the line is off. Paul believes Lipski has a legitimate chance.

The Guru picks Melissa Gatto, noting her impressive win over Ariane Lipski via front kick to the body and her submission win over Karol Rosa. He acknowledges her loss to Tracy Cortez but believes she has improved during her year off. He predicts a submission off her back, possibly an armbar.

Angelo picks Ismael Bonfim due to his incredible power and impressive debut. However, he advises caution because Bonfim is still unproven and Saint Denis is a tough opponent with good wrestling. He notes Bonfim's boxing and BJJ but questions his cardio and takedown defense. He calls it a low confidence pick.

Big Brady picks Ismael Bonfim to win by third-round knockout. He believes Bonfim is the much better striker with power, and though his striking defense is a liability, Saint Denis is hittable and has been finished before. He notes Bonfim's takedown defense has improved, so Saint Denis won't be able to grapple. He expects Bonfim to land repeatedly and get a late finish.

Cody is high on Bonfim, calling him the real deal with good movement, power, accuracy, and solid takedown defense. He notes Bonfim's wins over tough competition on Contender Series and Terrence McKinney. He sees Saint Denis as an all-action brawler who is hittable and has a good chin but will be overwhelmed by Bonfim's precision. Cody expects Bonfim to win by knockout or clear decision.

Daniel confidently picks Bonfim, citing his polished boxing, feints, timing, and well-rounded game. He notes Saint Denis is tough and durable but his striking is less polished, and Bonfim is comfortable on the ground as well. He believes the striking gap is significant and that Bonfim covers Saint Denis across the board. He missed the opening line (-250) and won't bet at -310, but expects Bonfim to win.

James says he has not taped this fight yet and does not have an opinion. He notes that Benoît Saint Denis is tough but may be outmatched, and that Ismael Bonfim is favored on the feet. He suggests the over might be an angle but needs to do more tape.

Paul thinks the line is a bit out of hand but still picks Bonfim. He notes Saint Denis is capable of making it a war and has value at +260, but Bonfim's skills are superior. Paul mentions the judges can be unpredictable, but Bonfim should win if it's close.

The Guru picks Ismael Bonfim, calling it a no-brainer. He highlights Bonfim's impressive win over Terence McKinney via flying knee KO and his strong grappling and takedown defense. He predicts Bonfim will stuff Saint Denis's takedowns and get a second-round TKO, as Saint Denis will hesitate and get broken down.

Angelo picks Brunno Ferreira but with low confidence. He acknowledges Ferreira's insane power but questions his takedown defense against a wrestling specialist like Ruziboev. He notes that Ruziboev is a live underdog and may flip his pick if the line moves. He advises avoiding betting on this fight entirely.

Big Brady picks Brunno Ferreira to win by first-round knockout. He is more impressed with Ferreira's Contender Series win and his knockout of Gregory Rodriguez than any of Ruziboev's opponents. He notes Ruziboev has poor takedown defense and Ferreira has solid wrestling and devastating ground and pound. He acknowledges Ruziboev could be legit but feels Ferreira is the safer pick.

Cody sees Ruziboev as a greasy underdog with plus money. He notes Ruziboev has 44 pro fights, has improved since moving to Daniel Gracie's team, and has a size and grappling advantage. Ferreira has big power but questionable cardio and grappling. Cody thinks Ruziboev can win by wrestling and cardio, though he acknowledges the unknown level of competition.

Daniel leans Ferreira but with low confidence due to the late opponent change and Ruziboev's length and experience. He notes Ferreira's explosive power and first-round finishing ability, but worries about closing distance against a 6'4" fighter with 20 submission wins. He acknowledges Ruziboev's poor cardio and decision record (2-6), but sees Ferreira's path to victory via takedowns or power shots. He is less confident than in the original matchup against Razak.

Paul picks Ferreira but is not confident. He notes Ferreira's power and KO of Gregory Rodrigues, but questions his cardio and grappling. Ruziboev is an unknown with a strange record. Paul thinks Ferreira's power gives him a chance, but he doesn't feel great about the pick.

The Guru picks Brunno Ferreira, noting his power and strength advantage. He criticizes Ruziboev's striking as sloppy and open to getting chinned, and believes Ferreira will stuff takedowns and land a big shot for a KO. He also notes Ruziboev's submission wins come off his back, but Ferreira won't shoot takedowns.

Angelo picks Rinat Fakhretdinov, citing his offensive wrestling, heavy hands, and insane cardio. He believes Kevin Lee's only chance is to come forward and initiate takedowns, but he doubts Lee can take down Fakhretdinov. He notes the line has moved from -260 to -190, indicating money on Lee, but he is shocked the odds are close.

Big Brady picks Rinat Fakhretdinov to win by decision, but is not confident. He notes Fakhretdinov has a size and cardio advantage, and is in his prime, while Kevin Lee has been battling injuries and is small for welterweight. However, he acknowledges if prime Kevin Lee shows up, the price would be a steal. He thinks Fakhretdinov's wrestling and pace will be too much for the current version of Lee.

Cody reluctantly picks Kevin Lee as a plus-money underdog. He notes Lee's past success against top competition, his never losing a first round in the UFC, and his improved knees after surgery. He thinks Fakhretdinov's wins over Andreas Michailidis and Brian Battle are unimpressive and that Lee's striking and wrestling are superior. However, he acknowledges Lee's poor performance against Diego Sanchez and the size disadvantage.

Daniel confidently picks Fakhretdinov, citing his dominant grappling and striking stats (7 takedowns, 102-25 strikes against Battle; 5 takedowns, 106-48 strikes against Michailidis). He criticizes Kevin Lee as a front-runner who fades when pressured, and notes Lee's 1-4 skid before being cut. He expects Fakhretdinov to impose his will and finish Lee, possibly by submission or TKO. He dismisses the 'crotch sniffer' label, emphasizing that Fakhretdinov outstrikes opponents as well.

Paul picks Fakhretdinov, citing his size advantage (natural welterweight vs Lee moving up), dominant performance against Brian Battle, and Lee's poor showing against Diego Sanchez. He notes Lee's knee surgeries and layoff, and believes Fakhretdinov's grappling will be too much. Paul thinks Lee may have peaked and is now declining.

The Guru picks Rinat Fakhretdinov, citing Kevin Lee's decline, especially his poor performance against Diego Sanchez. He notes Fakhretdinov's dominance over Brian Battle, who is a solid prospect. He predicts Fakhretdinov will dominate in later rounds, getting a third-round TKO or rear-naked choke, as Lee's cardio and chin are questionable.

Angelo picks Joanderson Brito to win inside the distance. He describes Brito as an absolute savage with fast, athletic striking and solid top pressure. He believes Westin Wilson, despite high fight IQ, is outmatched by Brito's size, strength, and aggression. He plans to parlay Brito if under -400 or bet the finish prop.

Big Brady picks Joanderson Brito to win by first-round knockout, calling it one of the most lopsided matchups he's ever seen. He notes Wilson has no takedown defense, poor striking defense, and has been knocked out several times. Brito is a black belt in BJJ with power and can finish anywhere. Brady expects a finish within the first 60 seconds.

Cody is very confident Brito wins, likely by submission. He notes Brito's significant advantages in striking, wrestling, and grappling. Wilson is a regional fighter making his UFC debut at 34, with losses to lower-level competition. Cody thinks Brito will take him down and submit him, possibly by rear-naked choke. He prefers the submission prop at +200.

Daniel confidently picks Brito to finish Wilson, predicting a first-round submission. He notes Brito's high ceiling, as praised by UFC matchmakers, and his dangerous grappling. He sees Wilson as a 'kill or be killed' fighter who will be outmatched physically and technically. He expects Brito to dominate wherever the fight goes, and calls it a mismatch.

Paul agrees Brito wins inside the distance, likely by KO. He notes the huge disparity in experience and skill, with Wilson being a career regional fighter. Paul thinks Brito will knock him out by backing him up and landing a big shot. He mentions Brito's cauliflower ears as a sign of his toughness.

The Guru picks Joanderson Brito, noting his momentum with two wins in a row over decent competition, including a KO and a submission. He believes Brito's grappling will be too much for Westin Wilson, who trains at Upstate Karate with Stephen Thompson but has a tendency to give up his back. He predicts a rear-naked choke submission in the first round.

Angelo picks Karol Rosa, expecting her volume and takedown threats to disrupt Yana Santos's rhythm. He notes Yana is the better technical striker but Rosa's busy output and wrestling will be key. He predicts a decision win for Rosa, similar to her win over Lina Lansberg but without a knockdown. He likes the over 2.5 rounds.

Big Brady picks Karol Rosa to win by decision. He notes Yana Santos has looked atrocious lately, with poor takedown defense (45%) and losses to Holly Holm and Irene Aldana. He believes Rosa's black belt in BJJ and superior striking volume will allow her to control the fight on the mat and on the feet. He acknowledges the fight could get greasy but is confident Rosa has her covered everywhere.

Cody likes Rosa's volume and wrestling advantage. He notes Santos has poor takedown defense and get-up game, as seen in fights against Vieira and Holm. Rosa can wrestle and has good durability. Cody thinks Rosa will press Santos against the cage, take her down, and grind out a decision. He also notes Rosa's ability to put up high strike numbers.

Daniel leans Rosa but is concerned about her recent drop in volume and defensive grappling holes. He notes Rosa's past high-volume performances and toughness, but worries that Yana could control her against the fence and win close rounds. He expects Rosa to win but sees a path for Yana via grinding decisions, making the -150 price unappealing. He calls it a pass at these odds.

Paul picks Rosa, citing her significant strike volume (125 vs Kohaya, 171 vs Procopio) compared to Santos' low volume. He notes Rosa's wrestling advantage and Santos' recent losses. Paul thinks Rosa by decision is likely, but he may not bet it due to the price.

The Guru picks Karol Rosa, calling her technically sound and noting her win over Joseline Edwards. He doesn't see her being out-grappled by Yana Santos. However, he expresses frustration with women's MMA, calling it a coin flip and saying 'whatever happens happens,' indicating low confidence.

Angelo picks Guram Kutateladze confidently, stating his striking is light years ahead and his takedown defense is some of the best in the division. He believes Elves Brener has no path to victory, as Guram won't get taken down or submitted. He thinks the line should be much higher, like -1100.

Big Brady picks Guram Kutateladze to win by second-round knockout. He sees a massive skill discrepancy, noting Kutateladze went competitive with Mateusz Gamrot and Damir Ismagulov, while Brener's best attribute is grappling, which won't work against Kutateladze's takedown defense. He believes Kutateladze will land repeatedly and eventually finish Brener.

Cody thinks Kutateladze is a legitimate top-15 talent with strong wrestling and physicality. He notes Brenner's win over Zubaira Tukhugov was controversial (all media scored for Tukhugov) and that Tukhugov was an undersized featherweight. Cody expects Kutateladze to win by KO or decision, but acknowledges his injury history and short notice. He still picks Kutateladze.

Daniel confidently picks Kutateladze, citing his superior striking and power. He notes Brener has never been finished but expects Kutateladze to dominate, possibly by knockout or decision. He acknowledges Brener's toughness and submission threat but believes Kutateladze is on a different level, as reflected in the -600 line. He expects a clear win, though he leans decision.

Paul picks Kutateladze but notes the minus-700 price is hard to back. He mentions Kutateladze's layoff and injury issues, but believes his talent is far superior. Brenner's win over Tukhugov was controversial and Tukhugov was out of shape. Paul thinks Kutateladze should win, but it's risky at such short odds.

The Guru picks Guram Kutateladze, citing a massive stylistic mismatch for Elves Brener, who was preparing for Jordan Levitt's slow, non-athletic striking and wet blanket wrestling. He notes Kutateladze's speed and danger, and his impressive performance against Damir Ismagulov, which showed top-15 level. He predicts a TKO finish, as Kutateladze's striking will overwhelm Brener.

Angelo picks Ivana Petrović, expecting her grappling to be the difference. He notes she should be able to take down Luana Carolina and either submit or grind out a decision. However, he finds the -200 odds too wide for a UFC debut with only six fights and advises against betting. He warns against the over 2.5 rounds as the fight could end either way.

Big Brady picks Luana Carolina by decision, but is very reluctant. He thinks Carolina is the better striker and has solid takedown defense, but notes she has been taken down and put in trouble before. Petrović has a good ground game and could finish if she gets on top. Brady calls it a terrible fight and advises not to bet on it.

Cody likes Carolina as a plus-money underdog. He notes Petrović is very green (less than 2 years pro) and has been dropped in fights. Carolina has fought better competition and has a striking advantage. Cody thinks Carolina can keep the fight standing and win a decision, especially if she defends takedowns. He compares it to other recent underdog wins.

Daniel picks Luana Carolina as an underdog, citing her experience and takedown defense (2 of 15 allowed against Godinez). He notes Petrović is hittable and unproven at UFC level, and that debuts often disappoint. He sees a close kickboxing match where Carolina's volume and durability could edge her ahead. He is willing to take a shot at plus odds.

Paul is considering Carolina as a dog. He notes Petrović's wrestling is her only path, but her stand-up is green and she was dropped by a short elbow. Carolina has good balance in the clinch and striking advantage. Paul thinks if Petrović can't get takedowns, Carolina wins. He is watching the market for a better price.

The Guru picks Ivana Petrović, citing her undefeated record (6-0) and good cardio shown in a fourth-round submission win. He notes Luana Carolina's losses to Molly McCann and Joanne Calderwood, and while Carolina beat Lupita Godinez, she was much larger. He trusts the undefeated prospect but acknowledges women's MMA is unpredictable.

Angelo picks Blagoy Ivanov but with hesitation, contingent on Romanov's weight cut. He notes Romanov's recent poor performances and lack of cardio, while Ivanov has an iron chin and solid takedown defense. He plans to wait for weigh-ins: if Romanov looks in shape, he'll switch to Romanov; if not, he'll bet Ivanov. He mentions Ivanov at +125.

Big Brady picks Blagoy Ivanov to win by third-round finish, but is very hesitant. He notes Romanov has cardio issues and looked terrible at weigh-ins for his last fight, gassing after one minute. Ivanov is extremely durable, has never been knocked out, and has gone to decision in all seven UFC fights. Brady says he needs to see Romanov's weigh-ins to have a stronger opinion, but if Ivanov survives the first round, he should take over and possibly finish late.

Cody is torn on Romanov. He notes Romanov's potential and wrestling, but his poor cardio and questionable heart after the Volkov loss. He thinks if Romanov comes in shape, he can take Ivanov down and win early rounds. However, Ivanov is extremely durable and has never been finished. Cody suggests waiting for weigh-ins and considering live betting.

Daniel picks Ivanov pre-weigh-ins due to Romanov's inconsistency and weight issues. He notes Romanov's drastic weight fluctuation (239 to 264 lbs) and his tendency to quit after failed takedowns. Ivanov is durable, has a 70% takedown defense, and has been competitive in all his losses. However, Daniel reserves the right to change his pick if Romanov weighs in lean (239 lbs). He calls it a 'wait for weigh-ins' situation.

Paul picks Ivanov, citing his durability and proven ability to go 15 minutes. He notes Romanov has never shown he can fight past the second round without gassing. Ivanov has gone the distance with top heavyweights and has good grappling. Paul thinks Romanov's cardio and mental toughness are major question marks, and Ivanov will outlast him.

The Guru picks Alexander Romanov but expresses hesitation due to Romanov's terrible performance against Alexander Volkov, where he gave up after a stuffed takedown. However, he believes Romanov can out-grapple Blagoy Ivanov, who is fat and unathletic, using his signature forearm choke. He uses MMA algebra: Romanov outgrappled Tybura, who outgrappled Ivanov. He notes Ivanov is not adding new wrinkles and is aging.