Fight Analysis
Reasons to Watch UFC Fight Night: Roman Dolidze vs Nassourdine Imavov
“[Dolidze] has a chin on him.. he just believes he can take your shots and you will not be able to take his clean” - Daniel Cormier on commentary during Dolidze vs Vettori
If you are not sure who these fighters are, or need a reason to get up for this fight night, here are some fights you can find on YouTube to put you in the mood:
Dolidze vs Vettori
Dolidze vs Hemansson
Imavov vs Strickland
Imovov vs Shahbazyan
Dolidze is ranked #8 at the UFC’s middleweight division, where Imavov ranks #11.
Case for Roman Dolidze:
If you have seen him fight or once you watch those videos, you will see what Daniel Cormier was talking about. Dolidze is not afraid to trade in the middle of the octogon. In watching his fight vs Vettori, I actually like the work he did better in that very competitive fight. Either way he definitely has what it takes to be in the mix with the division’s best. He does also have very strong grappling, which he may use to take the swift striking Imavov off his feet.
Case for Nassourdine Imavov:
Imavov may be the more complete martial artist. In his fight against Strickland, he fought Strickland’s fight and never was able to get out of boxing range. If you watch his other fights, like the one vs Shahbazyan, you can see what the result can be when Imavov fights his fight (this one was finished with punches from the crucifix position). He is a well rounded fighter with a great ground game once he gets on top.
Betting Odds:
Imavov: -166
Dolidze: +140
Over 2.5 Rounds:
Under 2.5 Rounds:
I’m rolling with the underdog Dolidze here. Not only is this a better value, but I think he has a good chance of winning while pushing the pace similar to how Strickland did. I don’t expect this fight to get finished, but I might throw 20% of my bet or so on Dolidze by KO/TKO for fun. Any parlay with an over of some odd rounds is a good bet too if you want to boost the payout but are not commited to how the fight will finish.
