Islam Makhachev vs Dan Hooker Odds, Preview and Prediction, October 30 (10/30): UFC

Credit: photo by Per Haljestam-USA TODAY Sports

 

Odds

Time (Main Card)	2:00 p.m. EST
Islam Makhachev money line	-700
Dan Hooker money line	+500

 

Key stats

	Islam Makhachev	Dan Hooker
Height	5'10	6'0
Weight	155	155
Reach	70.5'	75.5'
Record	20-1	21-10
Streak	W8	W1
Last 5	5-0	3-2

 

Preview

 

We have ourselves a good one in the Lightweight division, as the rising contender Islam Makhachev clashes with Dan ‘The Hangman’ Hooker. The storm that is Makhachev has engulfed the Lightweight division, winning eight consecutive fights. In those eight wins, Makhachev has stopped four of his opponents. Checking in at #5 in the UFC’s Lightweight rankings, Makhachev finally will get a chance to prove his worth against a fellow top ten fighter in Hooker. A dynamic striker who is as gritty and game as they come, Hooker is a formidable foe. Coming off a bounce back victory over Nasrat Haqparast a month ago, the New Zealander is betting on himself on short notice.

 

Prediction

 

This is an excellent fight and one that will really test Islam Makhachev, as Dan Hooker is one the best fighters in the division. The one thing that keeps racing in my head is if Makhachev is going to succeed in taking Hooker down. While many people are quick to think yes, I’m not entirely sure it will be as easy as we believe. For one, Hooker is third all-time in the Lightweight division regarding takedown defense, checking in at 90.5%. Two, Hooker hasn’t been taken down more than once in his last eleven fights. While those are impressive marks, I could see the other side of the argument. Makhachev is not only a whole different animal, but he is the best wrestler that Hooker has ever faced.

As for a prediction, I have Makhachev. While I do think Hooker will have his moments, the Russian is too well rounded and too cerebral. Makhachev not only can hold his own on the feet, but his wrestling abilities are head and shoulders above anyone in the division. With a 65.7% takedown accuracy, Makhachev already is second all-time in the Lightweight division. While I can see that number fall a bit due to Hooker’s stout takedown defense, as the fight wanes, the grind of Makhachev will wear on Hooker. From there, Makhachev will take over and defeat Hooker via decision.

 

PICK: Islam Makhachev (-700)

 

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