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UFC 311: Makhachev vs. Tsarukyan 2 - Zachary Reese Battles Azamat Bekoev in Middleweight Showdown

On January 18, 2025, at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, the UFC presents UFC 311: Makhachev vs. Tsarukyan 2. The event, headlined by the lightweight title rematch between Islam Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan, features an exciting middleweight prelim bout between Zachary Reese and Azamat Bekoev. 

 

Fighter Backgrounds

Zachary Reese

Zachary "Savage" Reese (8-1-0), fighting out of Bangtao Muay Thai, is a rising star in the middleweight division. Known for his aggressive striking and dynamic finishes, Reese has quickly made a name for himself with highlight-reel knockouts. Coming off back-to-back wins over Julian Marquez and Jose Daniel Medina, Reese is eager to continue his ascent in the UFC.

Azamat Bekoev

Azamat "Kingpin" Bekoev (18-3-0), representing American Top Team, is a seasoned veteran with extensive experience on the global MMA stage. Bekoev is a former LFA middleweight champion, with a mix of powerful striking and elite grappling. He’s riding a five-fight win streak, including a TKO victory over Chauncey Foxworth to defend his title.

Fighting Styles and Strengths

Zachary Reese

• Explosive Striking: Reese possesses knockout power, with five of his victories coming via TKO.
• Quick Finisher: Most of Reese’s wins have occurred in the first round, showcasing his ability to overwhelm opponents early.
• Unorthodox Offense: With a switch stance and diverse striking arsenal, Reese keeps opponents guessing.

Azamat Bekoev

• Well-Rounded Game: Bekoev can dominate on the feet or the mat, with six knockouts and eight submission victories.
• Championship Experience: His time as LFA champion has prepared him for high-pressure situations.
• Cardio and Composure: Bekoev excels in longer fights, where his endurance and tactical approach shine.

Recent Performances

Zachary Reese

Reese delivered a stunning 20-second knockout of Julian Marquez at UFC Fight Night: Cannonier vs. Imavov. His follow-up performance against Jose Daniel Medina showed his ability to control the fight and secure a dominant unanimous decision victory.

Azamat Bekoev

Bekoev’s last outing saw him defend his LFA middleweight title with a second-round TKO over Chauncey Foxworth. His ability to seamlessly blend striking and grappling was on full display, reaffirming his elite status in the division.

Odds and Betting Information

Fighter	Odds
Zachary Reese	+170
Azamat Bekoev	-200

 

Keys to Victory

Zachary Reese

• Start Fast: Utilize his explosive striking to put Bekoev on the back foot early.
• Stay Active: Maintain a high pace to prevent Bekoev from settling into a rhythm.
• Avoid the Ground: Keep the fight standing, where Reese’s power gives him the edge.

Azamat Bekoev

• Control the Distance: Use his grappling to dictate where the fight takes place.
• Weather the Storm: Survive Reese’s early aggression and capitalize in the later rounds.
• Mix in Takedowns: Exploit Reese’s potential vulnerabilities on the ground.

 

Prediction