UFC ON ESPN 48: Alexandr Romanov vs. Blagoy Ivanov 7/1/23 – UFC on ESPN 48 will soon arrive and promises an exhilarating heavyweight clash between Alexandr Romanov and Blagoy Ivanov. We will examine their strengths, weaknesses, past performances, predictions and picks to make informed UFC picks and predictions about this match-up.
Alexandr Romanov vs. Blagoy Ivanov
Date & Time: Saturday, July 1, 2023, at 4:00 PM ET
Location: UFC APEX, Las Vegas, Nevada
TV: ESPN+
UFC ON ESPN 48: Alexandr Romanov vs. Blagoy Ivanov 7/1/23 Betting Odds
Romanov
Moneyline: -135
Ivanov
Moneyline: +115
Alexandr Romanov vs. Blagoy Ivanov Analysis
Alexandr Romanov, commonly referred to by his moniker of “King Kong,” boasts exceptional offensive and defensive abilities that make him an influential force in the heavyweight division. Boasting an impressive 16-2-0 record throughout his career, Romanov has proven his superiority against opponents throughout. Unfortunately, recently losing to Volkov was a setback that may serve as valuable lessons and motivation to come back stronger in future fights.
Romanov’s 50% striking accuracy shows his precision when landing significant strikes. Furthermore, his 3.62 average significant strikes per minute demonstrate his consistent ability to find his target and demonstrate both accuracy and volume when striking effectively, giving him control of stand-up exchanges.
Romanov stands out with his outstanding grappling abilities, averaging 4.96 takedowns per 15 minutes on average and 1.1 submissions every 15 minutes once on the ground. Furthermore, Romanov’s grappling arsenal includes various techniques that make him dangerous at every fight phase.
Blagoy Ivanov, commonly called “Baga,” boasts a 19-5-0-1 (1 NC) record entering this fight. Ivanov relies heavily on his striking abilities, although his accuracy of 40% is slightly higher compared to Romanov. Still, Ivanov boasts impressive power and technique to inflict damage upon his opponents.
Ivanov excels at his defense. Boasting an exceptional special defense rate of 54% and an ability to absorb fewer strikes per minute at 4.01, he has proven durable and difficult to hit cleanly – something which frustrates his opponents and forces them to take risks, potentially opening up counterattack opportunities.
Ivanov’s takedown defense should also be considered. With an impressive takedown defense rate of 70%, he has proven adept at keeping his opponents from taking him down. This may challenge Romanov, whose game plan relies heavily on grappling skills and takedown ability.
Alexandr Romanov vs. Blagoy Ivanov Stats
| Romanov | Ivanov | |
| Wins/Losses/Draws | 16-2-0 | 19-5-0 (1 NC) |
| Average Fight Time | 7:46 | 16:26 |
| Height | 6′ 2″ | 5′ 11″ |
| Weight | 262 lbs. | 250 lbs. |
| Reach | 75″ | 73″ |
| Stance | Southpaw | Southpaw |
| Strikes Landed per Min. | 3.62 | 3.29 |
| Striking Accuracy | 50% | 40% |
| Strikes Absorbed per Min. | 2.00 | 4.01 |
| Defense | 46% | 54% |
| Takedowns Average/15 min. | 4.96 | 0.78 |
| Takedown Accuracy | 52% | 40% |
| Takedown Defense | 20% | 70% |
| Submission Average/15 min. | 1.1 | 0.1 |
Alexandr Romanov vs. Blagoy Ivanov Free Pick
Romanov’s current expectations and perceived advantages include striking accuracy, grappling skills and recent losses acting as motivation; these odds indicate his prediction to win this bout.
Romanov boasts superior striking accuracy, grappling, and submission rates in this matchup, giving him a distinct edge over Ivanov in this contest. He can land significant strikes at a higher rate while his ground game could prove decisive to victory; however, Ivanov’s excellent defense, takedown defense, durability, and resistance must not go overlooked, should they manage to neutralize Romanov’s grappling efforts while capitalizing on his striking, it may result in an unexpected victory from Ivanov.
Free Pick: Alexandr Romanov -135
As the UFC on ESPN 48 event approaches, the excitement builds for the Alexandr Romanov vs. Blagoy Ivanov heavyweight clash. With Romanov’s superior offensive and defensive skills, he enters the fight as the favorite, as reflected in the latest odds. However, Ivanov’s solid defense, takedown defense, and the striking game should not be underestimated, making this matchup intriguing.
UFC betting trends are always subject to change, but it’s crucial to consider the fighters’ performances, statistics, and recent fights when making predictions and picks. Ultimately, the skill, determination, and adaptability demonstrated by Romanov and Ivanov on fight night will determine the outcome. We can only eagerly await the moment these two heavyweights step into the octagon and put their skills to the test.
