August 02, 2024 1:28 PM
Ewan Lavender

MMA Preview – Joel Alvarez vs Elves Brenner at UFC on ABC 7

Click here for today’s sports betting tips from our expert analysts!

JOEL ALVAREZ VS ELVES BRENNER FACTS

When is UFC on ABC 7? Saturday 3rd August, 2024 - 18:00 start (UK)

Where is UFC on ABC 7? Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi (UAE)

Where can I get tickets for UFC on ABC 7? Click here to buy tickets for UFC on ABC 7

What channel is UFC on ABC 7 on? BT Sport 1

Where can I stream UFC on ABC 7? BT Sport subscribers can stream the fight online via the BT Sport website

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!

JOEL ALVAREZ VS ELVES BRENNER LOWDOWN

Joel Alvarez (20-3) makes his annual appearance. His only two losses in the UFC were on debut against Damir Ismagulov (2019) which was part of a 19-fight in streak and future title contender Arman Tsarukyan (2022). He has won and finished all five of his other UFC bouts (two knockouts and three submissions) and is coming off a brilliant response to the Tsarukyan loss wrapping Marc Diakiese (2023) up in a D’arce choke.

Elves Brenner (16-4) has been a lot more active. He made his debut in 2023 off the back of two submissions and fought three times that year. He earnt a split decision over Zubaira Tukhugov on debut and then knocked out Guram Kutateladze and Kaynan Kruschewsky. He then went on to meet Myktybek Orolbai at UFC 301 in May and lost a unanimous decision.

JOEL ALVAREZ VS ELVES BRENNER PREDICTION

It is a shame Alvarez is not more active considering his talent. He is a decent striker and will fire in calf kicks to disable Brenner early. He will also boast a five-inch height and reach advantage which he leverages on the canvas with dangerous jiu-jitsu.

Brenner also has superb jiu-jitsu however, if he has any sense, he will avoid the takedown like the plague. All Alvarez’s submissions in the UFC have come after his opponents have shot in. Brenner also hits like a truck, so should try and keep the fight on the feet to test the chin of the Spaniard.

The Brazilian was out grappled in his last fight but will not have to worry about chained takedowns here. He is a tough matchup for Alvarez and represents all the value as the underdog. Interestingly, all Alvarez’s wins have come via knockout or submission and Brenner has never been finished so something has to give if Alvarez has a good night. This can go either way with a variety of outcomes possible.

Prediction: Alvarez via Decision

Value Bet: Brenner to win

TSZ Latest