UFC Fight Night: Whittaker vs. Aliskerov Preview and Predictions By Brett Cagle
Robert Whittaker (26-7) vs. Ikram Aliskerov (15-1)
In the Main Event from Saudia Arabia, we have a thrilling matchup between former Middleweight Champion Robert Whittaker and the surging Russian contender Ikram Aliskerov. Whittaker, known for his resilience and endurance, was initially set to face Khamzat Chimaev, but Aliskerov stepped in on short notice after Chimaev withdrew due to medical reasons. In his last fight, Whittaker showcased his mettle by overcoming early adversity to defeat Paulo Costa. Aliskerov, on the other hand, has been making waves in his young UFC career with impressive knockout wins over Phil Hawes and Warley Alves.
Whittaker's strategy will likely be to keep this fight standing and outstrike Aliskerov at a distance. However, things could take a turn if Aliskerov manages to get inside and force the fight to the ground. Currently, online sportsbooks have Whittaker as a betting favorite (-160), indicating that he is favored to win. It's worth noting that Aliskerov’s only professional loss is to Khamzat Chimaev, and he has never been scheduled for a five-round contest in the UFC. This is shaping up to be a fan-friendly main event between two world-class fighters.
Prediction: Robert Whittaker by Decision
Sergei Pavlovich (18-2) vs. Alexander Volkov (37-10)
At this weekend's co-main event, two heavyweight knockout specialists, Sergei Pavlovich and Alexander Volkov, are set to clash. Pavlovich, known for his historic run of first-round knockouts, was recently derailed by Interim champion Tom Aspinall. Volkov, a very technical kickboxer and the taller fighter by four inches, has finished respected contenders Tai Tuivasa, Alexander Romanov, and Jarizinho Rozenstruik in his last five fights. This matchup is a perfect example of the unpredictability of MMA, making it a must-watch for all fans.
This fight comes down to the volume of Volkov against the power of Pavlovich. Volkov will have to find a way to keep Pavlovich at a distance. Oddsmakers have Pavlovich as a betting favorite (-250). An interesting statistic is that Pavlovich has not been out of the first round since 2017.
Prediction: Sergei Pavlovich by KO/TKO
Johnny Walker (21-8) vs. Volkan Oezdemir (19-7)
A ranked light heavyweight matchup between Johnny Walker and Volkan Oezdemir, two fighters known for their explosive styles, has the potential to be an all-action fight. Despite a recent knockout by Magomed Ankalev, Walker remains one of the most athletic fighters in the division. Oezdemir, a former title challenger with a wealth of experience inside the UFC, just picked up a victory over newcomer Bogdan Guskov. With the fight being a pick’em at -115 at online sportsbooks, this is one of the most competitive fights on the card, promising an exciting showdown.
This fight is expected to be a stand-up battle between two competitors hungry for the knockout. Oezdemir, known for his massive power in his hands, has multiple first-round finishes on his resume. Walker, on the other hand, is a master of dynamic strikes, often catching his opponents off guard with his creativity. This clash of styles promises to be a very interesting fight that is unlikely to go the distance.
Prediction: Johnny Walker by KO/TKO