Nikita Krylov vs Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev Fight Week Breakdown and Prediction
FightIQ rating gap 22 points. Nikita Krylov rates 75 and Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev rates 53.
Nikita Krylov uses his veteran experience and durability to secure a victory against Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev. The fight goes to the judges after 3 hard rounds.
The Numbers
Nikita Krylov carries a FightIQ rating of 75 and Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev sits at 53, a gap of 22 points. The model win probability for Nikita Krylov stands at 67%, rated High confidence.
Tactical keys for the main event
Nikita Krylov must rely on his extensive experience against the undefeated challenger. He needs to manage the pace and force Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev into deep water where his 3 UFC bouts have not yet taken him. Krylov must remain defensively disciplined to navigate the high strike output of his opponent throughout the duration of the fight.
The path to victory for Krylov
Krylov needs to use his 20 UFC fight history to break down the rhythm of his opponent. By mixing his 2.19 takedowns per 15 minutes with his 4.38 strikes per minute, he can force Yakhyaev to work harder than he ever has before. Staying in the fight for the full 3 rounds is the primary objective for the veteran fighter.
How the challenger looks to win
Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev brings a high volume approach with 8.64 strikes per minute and a 68% accuracy rate. He also boasts 11.11 takedowns per 15 minutes and has stopped all attempts against his own takedown defense. He must maintain this intensity early to overwhelm Krylov before the fight reaches the later stages.
The one thing that decides it
The main factor is whether the raw pace of the undefeated fighter can break the composure of the seasoned veteran. While Yakhyaev has impressive numbers, Krylov has seen everything inside the cage over his 31-12-0 career. Experience usually dictates the outcome in these clashes when the distance is the expected conclusion.
Final verdict and the locked pick
We remain firm in our assessment for this light heavyweight matchup at UFC 333. Our locked pick is Nikita Krylov to emerge victorious by way of decision. We expect this battle to proceed to the distance as planned.
Get FightIQ picks in your inbox every week
Blog breakdowns and cashed slips, sent every Thursday morning.