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UFC 299: O'Malley vs. Vera 2 - CJ Vergara vs. Asu Almabayev Preview and Prediction

Prepare for a thrilling encounter in the flyweight division as CJ "C.J." Vergara squares off against Asu "Zulfikar" Almabayev at UFC 299. This bout promises to deliver fireworks at the Kaseya Center in Miami, FL on March 9, 2024. Let's analyze their backgrounds, recent performances, and a final prediction.

CJ Vergara - Pete Spratt Muay Thai

• Height/Weight: 5' 6", 126 lbs
• Record: 12-4-1 (7 TKO, 0 SUB)
• Team: Pete Spratt Muay Thai
• Nickname: C.J.
• Stance: Orthodox

Strengths:

CJ "C.J." Vergara boasts an impressive record with a knack for finishing fights via TKO. With a background in striking, Vergara possesses crisp boxing and devastating power in his hands, making him a dangerous threat on the feet.

Recent Performance:

Vergara showcased his striking prowess in his last fight, securing a unanimous decision victory over Vinicius Salvador at UFC 291.

Path to Victory:

For Vergara, the key to victory lies in keeping the fight standing and utilizing his superior striking skills to outclass Almabayev on the feet. He must maintain distance, land significant strikes, and avoid getting entangled in grappling exchanges where Almabayev excels.

Asu Almabayev - Dar Pro Team Kazakhstan

• Height/Weight: 5' 4", 125 lbs
• Record: 18-2-0 (3 TKO, 9 SUB)
• Team: Dar Pro Team Kazakhstan
• Nickname: Zulfikar
• Stance: Orthodox

Strengths:

Asu "Zulfikar" Almabayev possesses a formidable ground game, with the majority of his victories coming by way of submission. With a diverse arsenal of submission techniques, Almabayev is a threat to anyone who engages him on the ground.

Recent Performance:

Almabayev showcased his submission skills in his last fight, securing a second-round submission victory over Ode' Osbourne at UFC Fight Night: Sandhagen vs. Font.

Prediction:

In this matchup, Asu Almabayev holds the advantage with his superior grappling and submission abilities. Vergara's tendency to engage in striking battles plays into Almabayev's strengths, as he can capitalize on Vergara's aggression and look for takedowns to bring the fight to the ground. Once there, Almabayev is likely to utilize his exceptional submission skills to secure a victory. Expect Almabayev to win by submission, possibly by rear-naked choke or another grappling technique, as he imposes his ground game and controls the fight.

Pick: Almabayev by Submission -110