UFC 294: Said Nurmagomedov vs. Muin Gafurov 10/21/23 – As the clock ticks down to UFC 294, fans worldwide are eagerly looking forward to the bantamweight showdown between Said Nurmagomedov and Muin “TAJIK” Gafurov. Scheduled for 10/21/23, this bout promises to be a strategic battle of wits and wills between two formidable fighters. If you’re seeking free MMA expert picks, you’ve come to the right place. Our detailed analysis below will provide you with insights that can guide your betting decisions for this anticipated bout.
Said Nurmagomedov vs. Muin Gafurov
Date & Time: Saturday, October 21, 2023 at 2:00 PM ET
Location: Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
TV: ESPN+
UFC 294: Said Nurmagomedov vs. Muin Gafurov 10/21/23 Betting Odds
| Moneyline | |
| Nurmagomedov | -225 |
| Gafurov | +190 |
Said Nurmagomedov Analysis
Said Nurmagomedov enters the Octagon with an impressive record of 17-3-0, a testament to his prowess and adaptability in the cage. Standing at 5’8″ with a 70″ reach, Said benefits from an orthodox stance that he has effectively utilized to land significant strikes with an SLpM of 3.54. His 47% striking accuracy speaks volumes about his precision, targeting his opponents’ vulnerabilities while keeping himself guarded. The defensive aspect of his game is further highlighted with a 56% defense rate, showcasing his capability to dodge and block incoming attacks.
On the grappling front, Nurmagomedov presents a well-rounded profile. Averaging 1.03 takedowns every 15 minutes at a 16% accuracy, he integrates wrestling seamlessly into his combat strategy. Although his takedown defense stands at 65%, it’s evident he has worked on his ground game, frequently leveraging his submission skills, as seen by his average of 1.2 submissions every 15 minutes. His recent loss to Martinez, while a setback, doesn’t overshadow his overall impressive MMA journey.
Muin Gafurov Analysis
Muin “TAJIK” Gafurov, a fierce contender in the bantamweight division, boasts a record of 18-5-0. Standing an inch shorter than his opponent at 5’7″, and with a 68″ reach, Gafurov uses his southpaw stance to provide a different challenge for orthodox fighters. With an SLpM of 3.07 and a striking accuracy of 41%, Gafurov might seem to lag behind Nurmagomedov in striking metrics. However, his relentless aggression often compensates for the numbers, though this style also means absorbing more strikes, evident from his 2.90 SApm.
Grappling appears to be Gafurov’s domain of expertise. With an exceptional average of 2.50 takedowns every 15 minutes, he consistently seeks to dominate opponents on the ground. His takedown accuracy of 27%, while not the highest, is complemented by his persistence in clinch and ground battles. However, a takedown defense rate of 62% might pose challenges against efficient wrestlers. His recent loss against Castaneda offers a glimpse into areas that might require improvement, but Gafurov has time and again demonstrated his ability to come back stronger.
Said Nurmagomedov vs. Muin Gafurov Stats
| Nurmagomedov | Gafurov | |
| Wins/Losses/Draws | 17-3-0 | 18-5-0 |
| Average Fight Time | 9:07 | 15:00 |
| Height | 5′ 8″ | 5′ 7″ |
| Weight | 135 lbs. | 135 lbs. |
| Reach | 70″ | 68″ |
| Stance | Orthodox | Southpaw |
| Strikes Landed per Min. | 3.54 | 3.07 |
| Striking Accuracy | 47% | 41% |
| Strikes Absorbed per Min. | 2.15 | 2.90 |
| Defense | 56% | 47% |
| Takedowns Average/15 min. | 1.03 | 2.50 |
| Takedown Accuracy | 16% | 27% |
| Takedown Defense | 65% | 62% |
| Submission Average/15 min. | 1.2 | 0.0 |
Said Nurmagomedov vs. Muin Gafurov Free Pick
After careful analysis, Nurmagomedov appears to have a slight edge in this matchup. While both fighters have impressive records, Nurmagomedov’s balanced approach in striking and grappling, combined with his higher defense rate, makes him our pick for this bout. With the odds at Nurmagedov -225, he’s our recommended choice for those looking to place a bet on this fight.
Free Pick: Said Nurmagomedov -225
UFC 294’s bantamweight bout promises to be a spectacle, as both fighters have showcased tremendous skill and dedication in their careers. If you’re considering placing a wager on this match, always remember to use reliable platforms. For our readers, if you’re wondering where to place your bets, consider exploring the Best Sportsbook in Canada to ensure a seamless betting experience. Whatever the outcome, this fight will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the highlights of UFC 294.
