Preview: UFC 264 Prelims

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Flyweights

NR | Zhalgas Zhumagulov (13-5, 0-2 UFC) vs. NR | Jerome Rivera (10-5, 0-3 UFC)

ODDS: Zhumagulov (-310), Rivera (+255)

This should be a fun time between two flyweights looking for their first UFC win. Kazakhstan’s Zhumagulov came into the promotion with quite a strong resume, reigning as Fight Nights champion and holding three straight wins over past and future UFC signees. For all his polish, Zhumagulov has not been able to make his style work inside the Octagon. Zhumagulov’s approach seems best for the five rounds that a championship reign provides. He is skilled everywhere but prefers a slow pace and tends to gain momentum over the course of his fights, taking a while to find the advantage that can lead him to a clear win. His UFC debut against Raulian Paiva easily could have gone Zhumagulov’s way, but after dropping his last bout to Amir Albazi, he looks to break his losing streak here.

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Rivera seemingly had all of the tools to make an impact upon hitting the UFC—he has a gigantic frame for the flyweight division and is willing to stay aggressive—but his run with the promotion has basically just exposed his weaknesses. Rivera just is not a powerful athlete, which led to his getting controlled by Francisco Figueiredo, and his durability now seems to be a clear concern after knockout losses to Tyson Nam and Ode Osbourne. Rivera has the more round-winning style in a vacuum, but Zhumagulov should have little trouble controlling the fight with his wrestling as long as he actually chooses to do so. The pick is Zhumagulov via decision.

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