Magomed Ankalaev will battle Aleksandar Rakic on Saturday in the UFC 308 event in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Ankalaev is largely regarded as the most sensational fighter in the light heavyweight category who is likely to dethrone Alex Pereira. The UFC wants the Russian to wait for his second title bout against Pereira by taking on Rakic. Meanwhile, Rakic has not won two of his fights and will be looking for an upset against a dangerous striker in Ankalaev.
Magomed Ankalaev vs. Aleksandar Rakic
| Team | Spread | Total | Money Line |
| Ankalaev | 02.5(-200) | -380 | |
| Rakic | u2.5(+160) | +280 | |
| **Odds Subject to Change** | |||
Magomed Ankalaev vs. Aleksandar Rakic Details
- Fixture: Magomed Ankalaev vs. Aleksandar Rakic UFC 308
- Date and Time: 26th October, 2024
- Location: Etihad Arena — Abu Dhabi, UAE
Key Stats
Magomed Ankalaev
Magomed Ankalaev is recognized as a solid striker and excellent grappler with the ability to control the octagon through the rounds. As pushes for a second title fight, the Russian will rely on his kickboxing abilities to make the Serbian fighter uncomfortable and potentially exploit him on the counter-attacks. He can also try to push for wrestling, but it will be difficult as Rakic can easily defend against any takedowns.
The only advantage the Russian fighter holds in this matchup is his ability to punch more accurately and powerful left kick. Ankaleav has not in his last five fights and he recently beat Johnny Walker through a knockout in the second round. The Russian has won 19 of out his 21 fights, winning 11 of them through knockout. He will hope to continue his winning streak, but he faces a tough battle.
Aleksandar Rakic
Despite losing two straight fights, Rakic has the size and strength to match up against Ankalaev. As an underdog, Rakic is not far off from his opponent and can rely on his physical talent and strength to execute persistent low kicks. In his last fights, Ankalaev has been highly vulnerable to inside low kicks and the Serbian can exploit this weakness to gain an advantage in the encounter in the UAE.
“Rocket” might be persistent in all five rounds and potentially win by decision due to his physical strength and striking ability. Rakic has lost three of his last five fights. In his last fight, the encounter against Jiří Procházka ended in the second round. However, these recent results don’t fully reflect the ability of the rocket. He has a mixed record, winning 14 of his 18 fights, with 8 knockout wins.
Prediction
Even though some fans are hoping for an upset, Magomed Ankalaev will control this encounter and eventually win in the later rounds or a unanimous decision after five rounds. The favorite was impressive in his last fight in January when he beat Johnny Walker in the second round by a right hook-uppercut. Rakic recently fought in April and lost, but he will look to give Ankaleav some real challenge and he relishes the opportunity to upset him.
Final Pick
Over 2.5, -200
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