MMA Preview – Tucker Lutz vs Melsik Baghdasaryan at UFC on ESPN 49
Click here for today’s sports betting tips from our expert analysts!
TUCKER LUTZ VS MELSIK BAGHDASARYAN FACTS
When is UFC Vegas 77? Sunday 16th July, 2023 - 01:00 start (UK)
Where is UFC Vegas 77? UFC APEX, Enterprise, Nevada (US)
Where can I get tickets for UFC Vegas 77? Click here to buy tickets for UFC Fight Night
What channel is UFC Vegas 77 on? BT Sport 1
Where can I stream UFC Vegas 77? 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!
TUCKER LUTZ VS MELSIK BAGHDASARYAN LOWDOWN
After Tucker Lutz’s (12-3) two successful Contender Series auditions in 2020, he made his debut at UFC 262 against Kevin Aguilar (2021) and notched up his third unanimous decision in a row. That extended his win streak to 12 however, he went on to get outpointed by Pat Sabatini (2021) and submitted by Daniel Pineda back in March denting the healthy record.
Melsik Baghdasaryan (7-2) is also coming off a loss. He also earnt the UFC contract via the Contender Series and kicked off his UFC career with a head kick knockout over Colin Anglin (2021) and a unanimous decision over Bruno Silva (2021) to extend his streak to seven. He returned 15 months later at UFC 284 but got submitted by Joshua Culibao.
TUCKER LUTZ VS MELSIK BAGHDASARYAN PREDICTION
Both fighters are aggressive with Lutz relying on his grappling to inflict the damage on the floor. Baghdasaryan on the other hand is a seasoned striker hailing from a kickboxing background.
The Armenian has a clear edge in the striking realm, but that will only matter if he can keep the fight on the feet. Lutz will trade, but only to set up a takedown. He is very strong in top position and will try and keep Baghdasaryan pinned until the bell.
If Baghdasaryan’s takedown defence holds up, he will have an easy night chopping the legs down and opening up with rapid combinations. However, we feel Lutz will be able to assume enough control time to sway the judges.
Prediction: Lutz via Decision
Value bet: Lutz via Decision
