MMA Preview – Ikram Aliskerov vs Warlley Alves at UFC 294
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IKRAM ALISKEROV VS WARLLEY ALVES FACTS
When is UFC 294? Saturday 21st October, 2023 - 17:00 (UK)
Where is UFC 294? Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi (UAE)
Where can I get tickets for UFC 294? Click here to buy tickets for UFC 294
What channel is UFC 294 on? TNT Sports 2
Where can I stream UFC 294? TNT Sports subscribers can stream the fight online via the TNT Sports website and Discovery+
For viewers in the United States, the event will be shown live on ESPN+ and you can sign up for access as part of a Disney Bundle here!
IKRAM ALISKEROV VS WARLLEY ALVES LOWDOWN
Ikram Aliskerov (14-1) returns for his second fight of the year and second appearance inside the octagon. His UFC chapter could not have started better. After locking up a first-round kimura over Mario Sousa (2022) on the Contender Series, he was awarded the contract with the first challenge coming in the seismic shape of Phil Hawes (2023) at UFC 288. He made light work of him, knocking him out in a couple minutes to extend his streak to six.
He was preparing for Nassourdine Imavov who dropped out due to visa issues. Thankfully, Warlley Alves (14-6) has stepped up to make his 15th UFC appearance. He has not been active and has struggled to get any streak going. He is 4-6 in his last 10 and although he pulled out a vintage performance out of the bag by folding Mounir Lazzez (2021), he is coming off two disappointing losses – Jeremiah Wells (2021) via knockout and Nicolas Dalby (2023) via split decision.
IKRAM ALISKEROV VS WARLLEY ALVES PREDICTION
Aliskerov is a suffocating sambo specialist who is not afraid to throw bombs. Alves is well-rounded with power in his hands and lethal leg kicks. He also has slick jiu-jitsu which may come in handy as Aliskerov will try and put him on his back.
If Aliskerov decides to stand and trade like he did with Hawes, Alves will chew up his legs. If the Russian shoot in for a lazy takedown, Alves will also pounce on a guillotine.
However, there is nothing lazy about Aliskerov’s takedowns and as soon as he decides to switch on his wrestling, he can dominate especially as Alves is a natural welterweight. If Alves turns up and looks motivated, he can pull off the upset, but Aliskerov’s wrestling should get the job done.
Prediction: Aliskerov via Decision
Value bet: Alves to win
