Shamil Abdurakhimov vs Chris Daukaus Odds, Preview and Prediction, September 25 (9/25): UFC

Credit: photo by Per Haljestam-USA TODAY Sports

Odds

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Preview

The Heavyweight division takes center stage, as the surging Chris Daukaus looks to keep his good fortune going against Shamil ‘Abrek’ Abdurakhimov. Daukaus has won four consecutive fights, three of which have come in the UFC. More impressively, Daukaus has disposed of all four opponents in the opening round. Meanwhile, Abdurakhimov has not fought since he lost to Curtis Blaydes in 2019. Injuries and COVID are the culprit for the layoff, as ‘Abrek’ has seen five bouts cancelled since 2020. However, Abdurakhimov very much remains a top fifteen fighter, having defeated notables such as Marcin Tybura, Andrei Arlovski and Walt Harris.

Prediction

This is an intriguing Heavyweight scrap. Chris Daukaus has surprised a lot of people, having starched three tough opponents inside the octagon already. With solid striking and power, Daukaus has made it known he’s not to be reckoned with on the feet. However, Shamil Abdurakhimov can strike too. The Dagestani has won two of his last three victories via strikes. Abdurakhimov happens to have wrestling chops as well, often using it against foes who excel on the feet. Little known about Abdurakhimov, if not for the fight being five rounds, he would have handily beaten recent Interim title challenger Derrick Lewis. 

As for a prediction, I’m going with Abdurakhimov. While red flags of inactivity and age are apparent, I believe Abdurakhimov brings forth a very underrated skillset. Abdurakhimov is by far the best striker Daukaus has faced. Throw in the fact that we’ve only seen one takedown attempt against the American in the UFC, and I’m not exactly sure what to make of his takedown defense. Abdurakhimov has only lost three of his eight fights in the UFC, two of which have come to top five ranked Heavyweights in Curtis Blaydes and the aforementioned Derrick Lewis. Now, it’s a very real possibility that Daukaus can continue his tear and flatline Abdurakhimov on the feet. However, I believe ‘Abrek’ is a cerebral fighter who exploits opponents' weaknesses. I expect Abdurakhimov to mix in his striking and wrestling, ultimately defeating Daukaus via TKO.

PICK: Shamil Abdurakhimov (+165)

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