UFC 294 Betting Preview: Ikram Aliskerov vs. Warlley Alves

October 21, 2023

UFC 294 will boast excellent matchups throughout the night in the United Arab Emirates. One explosive matchup you should check out is the middleweight showdown between 11^th-ranked Ikram Aliskerov and Warlley Alves.

Location: Etihad Arena, Yas Island/Yas West United Arab Emirates

Date: Saturday, October 21, 2023

Main Card: 2:00 PM ET (ESPN+)

Prelims: 10:00 AM ET (ESPN+)

Ikram Aliskerov Betting Preview

Aliskerov has won his last six fights heading into this battle. He previously took care of Phil Hawes with a first round knockout at UFC 288 in May earlier this year.

He boasts a balanced resume of 14 wins, with five coming from knockout, five by submission, and four by decision. Six of these wins have resulted in first round finishes and his only defeat is by knockout.

He strikes accurately at 60 percent and lands takedowns about 33 percent of the time. When landing significant strikes, he lands 6.25 and takes on 7.88. He will need to do a better job at defending since he has a negative ratio here.

He defends against significant strikes at a 40 percent rate, but has not defended anything against takedowns yet. On the ground, he averages 3.47 takedowns and submissions per 15 minutes of action.

Warlley Alves Betting Preview

Alves has lost his last three of four battles and needs to get back on track. He has lost his last two, with the recent defeat being a split decision against Nicolas Dalby back at UFC 283 in January of this year.

His resume of 14 wins is impressive, as he has put together four knockouts, six submissions, and four decisions. Only two of his 14 wins have ended in the first round and three of his six losses have been by decision.

He displays a modest striking accuracy at 48 percent and lands takedowns at 50 percent. His significant strike ratio is also negative, coming in at 3.21 landed and 4.09 absorbed. This will be key in this matchup.

His defenses are solid, with a 51 percent success rate against significant strikes and 80 percent against takedowns. He has some activity on the ground, with 1.37 takedowns and 0.95 submissions per 15 minutes of action.

Odds, Series Trends and Free Pick

MyBookie has the odds for this fight showing that Ikram Aliskerov is a heavy favorite to win. Consider adding Aliskerov to a parlay with other battles from the night to potentially increase his payout if he wins.

Warlley Alves: +355

Ikram Aliskerov: -526

Both fighters have issues with their significant strikes since they both take on more than they deliver. However, Aliskerov appears more aggressive and can throw in more takedowns if needed.

Spooky Express Pick: Take Ikram Aliskerov to Win at -526

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