MMA Preview – Phil Hawes vs Nassourdine Imavov at UFC Fight Island 7
PHIL HAWES VS NASSOURDINE IMAVOV FACTS
When is UFC Fight Island 7? Saturday 16th January, 2021 - 20:00 start (UK)
Where is UFC Fight Island 7? Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi (UAE)
Where can I get tickets for UFC Fight Island 7? No tickets are available as this event will take place with a limited number of spectators
What channel is UFC Fight Island 7 on? BT Sport 3
Where can I stream UFC Fight Island 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!
PHIL HAWES VS NASSOURDINE IMAVOV LOWDOWN
Phil Hawes (9-2) is on fire right now and gaining more hype with each fight. After getting his head kicked off on his fist appearance on the Contender Series by Julian Marques in 2017, he has rack up four knockouts and a submission. He earnt the UFC contract by returning to the Contender Series and knocking out Khadzhimurat Bestaev and then marked a perfect UFC debut by brutally knocking out Jacob Malkoun back in October.
Nassourdine Imavov (9-2) is also tearing it up but flying in under the radar. He is on a six-fight win streak with four finishes (two submissions and two knockouts) and has gained experience at various promotions. He got the call-up after knocking out Jonathan Meunier under the Ares banner and also made his debut in October earning a unanimous decision over Jordan Williams.
PHIL HAWES VS NASSOURDINE IMAVOV PREDICTION
This is a great match-up, but one prospect has to get derailed. They are both ferocious finishers with very well-rounded skill sets. They have the same record, but Hawes has made more noise and will be the favourite however, Imavov is a savage and one of the brightest prospects coming out of Europe.
Hawes’ power is obviously his biggest threat – in his hands and in his wrestling. He will be ready to uncork bombs and if he does not land, he will shoot in for takedowns to and try to pin the Frenchman down to unleash ground and pound.
However, his explosions of energy may see him gas out in the third round so if Imavov can weather the storm and defend the takedowns, he can capitalise in the second half of the fight to pull off a late finish or decision.
Prediction: Imavov via Decision
