Luke Rockhold expects Umar Nurmagomedov to pose severe issues for Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 311.
Nurmagomedov (18-0 MMA, 6-0 UFC) challenges bantamweight champion Dvalishvili (18-4 MMA, 11-2 UFC) within the Jan. 18 co-main occasion from Inglewood, Calif. (ESPN+ pay-per-view, ESPN, ESPN+).
Rockhold, who educated with Nurmagomedov at American Kickboxing Academy, says “The Younger Eagle” represents the brand new wave of expertise from the Nurmagomedov college. Rockhold acknowledges Dvalishvili’s relentless grappling, however sees Nurmagomedov having a solution for all the things he throws at him.
“It is a robust matchup,” Rockhold mentioned on the “JAXXON Podcast.” “Merab’s only a difficult, robust, hard-nosed dude, so it’s like he’s started working round him. I imply, he can outstrike him, and he cannot get outwrestled. I feel that’s the place Umar can win. He can beat him in all places, actually. He can outstrike him, after which Merab can shoot in. Umar can counter him and get to his again. I’m telling you, he’s higher than him in all places.
“Merab might need the wrestling benefit ultimately, form or type, however not. Umar can counter him, nevertheless it’s going to return right down to dedication. Give it some thought. You’re like, it’s a tricky matchup for Umar, however then you definitely begin actually it. He’s going to outstrike Merab, after which Merab goes to get annoyed and shoot in. Umar’s going to counter him, he’s in all probability get to a dominant place, and it’s going to return up. I don’t see that combat going another method.”
In keeping with DraftKings, Nurmagomedov is a large -290 favourite to stay unbeaten and dethrone Dvalishvili, who’s a +235 underdog.
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