After being booked to face each other four times and having something hinder on each of those events, Tony Ferguson and Khabib Nurmagomedov seem destined to not fight. But, just in case they eventually meet from the Octagon, the undefeated Nurmagomedov is a -200 favorite with Ferguson coming straight back at +170.
Nurmagomedov is a perfect 26-0 in his MMA career with 16 of these victories coming via stoppage. Khabib last competed in the Octagon at UFC 223 where he mauled Al Iaquinta.
Having a master of sambo along with a black belt in judo, Khabib excels in suffocating his opponent possibly more than any other fighter in the UFC. Nurmagomedov is persistent in his pursuit of the takedown, also holds the record for most takedowns in one match in UFC history (21), but is far out of his element when it comes to striking. Khabib includes a deadly variety of punches and knees that can easily establish a T/KO success.
Ferguson, the present interim champion, is 13-1 at the UFC and enters this fight on a 10-fight win streak. “El Cucuy” is great in using his reach to his advantage at the standup game, but is a quantity striker who likes to push the speed. He has got power in both hands while also displaying a diverse arsenal on his feet. Ferguson isn’t just a striker, as nine of his 23 career victories have come via entry. His slick movement and aggressive style put opponents in awkward places that he capitalizes on.
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