Magomed Ankalaev is among the favorites to win at UFC Abu Dhabi, but the sports betting industry is not convinced of his dominance.
Seven contenders have emerged as potential winners in the event, with Ankalaev, Magomed Zaynukov, and Magomed Tuchalov being the top favorites.
Magomed Ankalaev, a Russian fighter, is favored to win at -575, while Magomed Zaynukov is at -290. However, the UFC has thrown Ankalaev against a competitor with exploitable weaknesses, and he may be able to take advantage of that.
Ankalaev's opponent, Bogdan Guskov, has been given a "puncher's chance" to win the fight, but Ankalaev's reputation as a takedown artist may give him the upper hand.
Magomed Zaynukov, also known as "John Pork," is a Dagestan native who has been working his way up through the ranks. He has shown that he can put pace on his opponents and grind them to dust.
Zaynukov's opponent, Damian Rzepecki, has more experience and stoppages on his ledger, but Zaynukov's strength of schedule and finish rate may give him the edge.
Magomed Tuchalov, a third Magomed making his promotional debut, has a 100% finish rate and is expected to take on a competitor with a win under his belt.
Valter Walker, a Brazilian fighter known for his heel hook, is a "meme fighter" who fights like he is playing a game. He is favored to win inside distance at +105.
Walker's opponent, Thomas Petersen, has a strong defensive record, and Walker may struggle to land his signature move.
The UFC has thrown a mix of favorites and underdogs into the event, making it a tough call for sports bettors.
Source: Yahoo Sports