UFC ON ESPN 52 Beneil Dariush vs. Arman Tsarukyan Betting Picks and Prediction for Saturday, December 2, 2023

UFC ON ESPN 52: Beneil Dariush vs. Arman Tsarukyan – The lightweight bout at UFC on ESPN 52 on December 2, 2023 between Beneil Dariush and Arman Tsarukyan is shaping up to be an intriguing matchup for UFC betting picks. Occurring at Moody Center, Austin, Texas, USA, this fight features a gritty veteran in Dariush taking on the young up-and-comer Tsarukyan.

Beneil Dariush vs. Arman Tsarukyan

Date & Time: Saturday, December 2, 2023 at 7:00 PM ET 

Location: Moody Center, Austin, Texas, USA

TV: ESPN+

UFC ON ESPN 52: Beneil Dariush vs. Arman Tsarukyan Betting Odds

Moneyline
Dariush+235
Tsarukyan-275

Beneil Dariush Analysis

Beneil Dariush enters with a professional MMA record of 22-5-1 and is currently ranked #6 in the talent-rich UFC lightweight division. His striking stats show accuracy and efficiency, landing 3.79 significant strikes per minute at a 49% clip. On the defensive side, he avoids over 58% of strikes thrown his way. His grappling complements his striking, securing takedowns at a 34% rate while preventing 80% of opponents’ takedown attempts. In his last fight, Dariush suffered a decision loss to the elite Charles Oliveira in a bout where he had success early with his striking. While Dariush came up short, he proved he belongs among the top lightweights, even giving the former champion Oliveira problems with his well-rounded attack.

Dariush utilizes a high pace and pressure in his fights, constantly moving forward and putting combinations together. He mixes up his striking and grappling seamlessly, complementing a karate style standup game with a black belt level BJJ skillset. Dariush has stopping power as well with 8 career KO victories but does his best work with volume and output.

He will look to establish his striking early in exchanges with Tsarukyan, who can sometimes start slow out of the gate. Dariush’s key to victory is fighting at his pace, walking down his opponent and mixing up strikes and takedown attempts. He has a durable chin which serves him well with his pressure style, allowing Dariush to aggressively pursue the finish without fear of being knocked out.

Arman Tsarukyan Analysis

Arman “Ahalkalakets” Tsarukyan possesses a 20-3 record and is ranked one spot behind Dariush at #7. The 26-year-old lands strikes at nearly the same rate as his opponent while absorbing fewer shots. His grappling metrics stand out, averaging over 3 takedowns per 15 minutes at a 36% accuracy mark. Tsarukyan stifled Joel Alvarez’s grappling game in his most recent bout, winning a unanimous decision.

Tsarukyan utilizes an exciting wrestler/striker skill set with relentless cardio to break opponents. He combines a decorated background in Armenian wrestling with developing standup skills crafted at the renowned Allstars Training Center in Sweden. Once Tsarukyan brings the fight to the mat, he is adept at controlling opponents on the ground while dealing damage and hunting for the finish.

The keys for Tsarukyan will be implementing takedowns early and often while avoiding Dariush’s submissions off his back. He must close the distance swiftly against the longer and rangier Dariush by working behind a solid jab and changing levels for reactive shots. Conditioning could also prove a major factor if Tsarukyan can’t manage the frenetic pace Dariush likes to push.

Beneil Dariush vs. Arman Tsarukyan Stats

DariushTsarukyan
Wins/Losses/Draws22-5-120-3-0
Average Fight Time9:1613:37
Height5′ 10″5′ 7″
Weight155 lbs.155 lbs.
Reach72″72″
StanceSouthpawOrthodox
Strikes Landed per Min.3.793.82
Striking Accuracy49%48%
Strikes Absorbed per Min.2.631.91
Defense58%54%
Takedowns Average/15 min.1.913.43
Takedown Accuracy34%36%
Takedown Defense80%75%
Submission Average/15 min.0.90.0

Beneil Dariush vs. Arman Tsarukyan Betting Pick

This matchup will likely come down to who controls the grappling exchanges. Tsarukyan is the superior wrestler but Dariush has shown excellent takedown defense. On the feet, these two match up very evenly. For final prediction, we give Tsarukyan a slight edge due to his energetic pace and relentless pressure. However, Dariush’s veteran savvy and well-rounded skills make this bout very competitive. When considering the plus-money odds, we would recommend placing a small wager on the underdog Dariush. 

Free Pick: Beneil Dariush +235

In conclusion, this matchup at UFC on ESPN 52 between Beneil Dariush and Arman Tsarukyan is poised to be a thrilling contest. For those looking to place bets, Canadian sportsbooks and other betting platforms offer various odds and lines on this bout. With Dariush favored at -275 and Tsarukyan as the underdog at +235, the odds reflect the competitive nature of this fight. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a casual fan, this fight promises not just excitement but also the opportunity to engage in the dynamic world of UFC betting. Our recommendation is to consider the stats, recent performances, and the fighters’ styles before placing your bets, with a slight favor towards Dariush in what promises to be an exhilarating contest.