Light Heavyweights
NR | Shamil Gamzatov (13-0) vs. NR | Klidson Abreu (15-3)ODDS: Gamzatov (-210), Abreu (+175)
The light heavyweight division always needs new talent, and Gamzatov is a solid enough addition to the UFC roster. He has a bunch of grappling credentials and has done well working his way up the ranks back home in Russia and in the Professional Fighters League, but the whole package seems to be less than the sum of its parts. Gamzatov is a powerful but plodding striker, and while he has his moments on the mat, he is nowhere near the control artist you would expect.
In his UFC debut, he will take on Abreu, who has looked decent over the course of his two bouts inside the Octagon. A Brazilian who eventually made his way to Russia, Abreu has a well-rounded skill set but has a similar difficulty taking control of a fight, even if he is more willing than Gamzatov to make up for that with aggression.
This should be a close one since neither man has shown much ability to control his opponents. Even though Abreu figures to throw more volume, Gamzatov seems like the more powerful hitter. The pick is Gamzatov via decision.
Finish Reading » ESPN+ Prelims