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NR | Muhammad Mokaev (6-0, 0-0 UFC) vs. NR | Cody Durden (12-3-1, 1-1-1 UFC)ODDS: Mokaev (-350), Durden (+260)
This might be the most intriguing fight on the card, given that it is the UFC debut of one of the most hyped prospects in the world in Mokaev. The youngest fighter on the UFC roster—and second fighter born in the 21st century to compete inside the Octagon—Mokaev made his professional debut in 2020 but had already made a name for himself as an extremely decorated amateur fighter. That experience shows in his available footage. There is a poise and a smoothness to Mokaev’s game, and he rarely makes a wrong decision. The ceiling is ridiculously high for the Dagestan-born Englishman, but it will be interesting to see what he can accomplish in the short term. While he is obviously a standout wrestler, his youth and long frame do suggest that he will be much more effective as a fighter after he fills out physically. Mokaev’s first challenge in the UFC will be Durden, who made some headlines for all the wrong reasons after his last fight. Leading into his November bout against Qileng Aori, Durden was flying under the radar as a fun and aggressive fighter still seeking his first UFC win, which he was able to get via decision in a gutsy performance. It was the type of showing that normally would have made Durden some fans, but after making some xenophobic remarks towards Aori in his post-fight interview, the Covington, Georgia, native instead wound up drawing the ire of many, including Mokaev. Beyond the bad blood, Durden does have the sort of wrestling skill and physicality that could make himself a bit of an obstacle for Mokaev at first. As someone who found most of their regional success early, Durden flags once a fight gets past a certain point, even if he is willing to fight through it. Against Aori that may have worked, but Mokaev should be able to take over this fight in grand fashion once Durden starts to tire. The pick is Mokaev via second-round submission.
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