In a much-anticipated clash at UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi, Sharabutdin Magomedov and Armen Petrosyan are set to test their striking prowess and resilience in the Octagon. Magomedov, with a background in Muay Thai, has been relentless since transitioning to MMA, holding an undefeated record of 14-0. Known for his precision and power, he has delivered back-to-back victories in the UFC, including a recent Fight of the Night performance against Michał Oleksiejczuk. Magomedov now faces a formidable opponent in Petrosyan, a knockout artist with a decorated record from Fight Nights Global and AMC Fight Nights. Petrosyan, who earned his UFC contract with a devastating knockout on Dana White’s Contender Series, has since displayed his technical striking and durability, despite a recent setback to Rodolfo Vieira. With both fighters aiming to break into the middleweight elite, this battle promises high stakes, high intensity, and potential fireworks as they each look to claim victory on the big stage in Abu Dhabi.

Sharabutdin Magomedov (14-0-0)

Nickname: «Shara Bullet»
Age: 30
Height: 6’2" (187.96 cm)
Weight: 186 lbs (84.37 kg)
Style: Lethwei, known for powerful striking and aggressive finishes.
Association: GOR MMA

Record Breakdown:

• KO/TKO Wins: 11 (79%)
• Submission Wins: 0 (0%)
• Decision Wins: 3 (21%)
• Losses: 0

Last Five Fights:

• Win vs. Michal Oleksiejczuk (Decision, Unanimous) - UFC on ABC 7 (Aug 3, 2024)
• Win vs. Antonio Trocoli (TKO, Knee and Punches) - UFC on ABC 6 (Jun 22, 2024)
• Win vs. Bruno Silva (Decision, Unanimous) - UFC 294 (Oct 21, 2023)
• Win vs. Kushal Vyas (KO, Knee and Punches) - TFC 10 (Dec 11, 2022)
• Win vs. Mikhail Ragozin (Decision, Unanimous) - RCC 13 (Dec 3, 2022)

Pathway to Victory for Magomedov: Magomedov’s strength lies in his striking capability and finishing power. He’ll aim to pressure Petrosyan early, utilizing his height and reach to land devastating knees and punches. Given his TKO ratio, he’ll likely look for an early stoppage while avoiding the grappling exchanges that Petrosyan may attempt.

Armen Petrosyan (9-3-0)

Nickname: «Superman»
Age: 33
Height: 6’2" (187.96 cm)
Weight: 186 lbs (84.37 kg)
Style: Striker with a well-rounded skill set, incorporating both stand-up and ground techniques.
Association: Academy MMA

Record Breakdown:

• KO/TKO Wins: 6 (67%)
• Submission Wins: 0 (0%)
• Decision Wins: 3 (33%)
• Losses: 3 (1 by KO, 1 by Submission, 1 by Decision)

Last Five Fights:

• Loss vs. Rodolfo Vieira (Submission, Arm-Triangle Choke) - UFC Fight Night 236 (Feb 10, 2024)
• Win vs. Christian Leroy Duncan (Decision, Unanimous) - UFC on ESPN 47 (Jun 17, 2023)
• Win vs. A.J. Dobson (Decision, Unanimous) - UFC 280 (Oct 22, 2022)
• Loss vs. Caio Borralho (Decision, Unanimous) - UFC on ESPN 39 (Jul 9, 2022)
• Win vs. Gregory Rodrigues (Decision, Split) - UFC Fight Night 202 (Feb 26, 2022)

Pathway to Victory for Petrosyan: Petrosyan needs to utilize his striking experience and tactical fighting style to withstand Magomedov’s early aggression. By maintaining distance and using his jab effectively, he can look to counter Magomedov’s attacks and potentially draw him into grappling exchanges. If the fight goes to the later rounds, Petrosyan’s ability to endure and adapt may give him the edge.

Prediction

This matchup pits Magomedov’s striking power against Petrosyan’s tactical experience. While both fighters have knockout capabilities, Magomedov’s undefeated record and aggressive style make him a formidable opponent. If he can establish his striking early, it could lead to a stoppage. However, if Petrosyan can weather the early storm and implement his fight IQ, he could take the decision.

Prediction: Sharabutdin Magomedov wins via TKO in the second round.