Rafael Tobias

Angelo calls Diyar a 'hittable, loser, bum' based on his notes from previous fights, and says he won't be fooled again. He expects Diyar to get slowed down, taken down, and submitted. He picks Rafael Tobias confidently.

Big Brady picks Rafael Tobias over Diyar Nurgozhay. He is extremely low on Nurgozhay, citing his weight miss, poor performances, terrible chin, and awful ground game (getting Ezekiel choked and nearly guillotined). Tobias is a 22-year-old debutant with good striking power and a BJJ black belt. Brady expects Tobias to take Nurgozhay down and submit him easily, predicting a first-round submission.

Cody picks Tobias but with caution, citing his grappling advantage but poor striking defense. He notes Nurgozhay's lack of grappling and Tobias' submission skills. He expects Tobias to win by submission if he uses his grappling.

Connor picks Tobias because Nurgozhay has shown a tendency to flinch and get hurt when pressured, as seen in his loss to Sultebaev. Tobias is a pressure fighter who swings with power, and Connor believes he can replicate that performance. He notes that Nurgozhay is a counter puncher who doesn't want to be tested.

Daniel Vreeland confidently picks Rafael Tobias, citing his momentum from Contender Series and confidence. He notes that Diyar Nurgozhay has struggled in the UFC, missing weight and getting submitted. Vreeland believes Tobias's aggression and confidence will be too much for Nurgozhay.

James picks Rafael Tobias, noting his youth, improving skills, and grappling advantage. He highlights Nurgozhay's poor jiu-jitsu and tendency to quit under pressure, while Tobias looks composed and powerful. James expects Tobias to win inside the distance, likely by submission or knockout in round one.

Tobias is more ready for UFC-level competition than Nurgozhay. He has cleaner striking and good takedown defense. Nurgozhay has been sloppy and hesitant, leaving openings. Tobias should find a submission victory, likely by rear-naked choke.

Paul also picks Tobias, noting his grappling ability and Nurgozhay's poor takedown defense. He expects a finish, possibly by submission. He bets the under 1.5 rounds.

The MMA Guru picks Rafael Tobias, impressed by his ability to choose finishes on the Contender Series. He notes Nurgozhay's physical tic (Tourette's) that may be a distraction, and Tobias's nasty left hook counter. He predicts a first-round TKO.