Nikita Krylov vs. Volkan Oezdemir Odds
One of UFC 280's most anticipated preliminary-card bouts pits Nikita Krylov against fellow light heavyweight Volkan Oezdemir.
These two vets have featured in many memorable UFC bouts, earning wins and losses against some of the division's elite talent over the years.
Which familiar face will reign supreme on Saturday, though? Let's look at the matchup.
Tale of the Tape
| Krylov | Oezdemir | |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 28-9 | 18-6 |
| Avg. Fight Time | 6:38 | 10:16 |
| Height | 6'3" | 6'2" |
| Weight (pounds) | 205 lbs. | 205 lbs. |
| Reach (inches) | 77" | 75" |
| Stance | Orthodox | Orthodox |
| Date of birth | 3/7/1992 | 9/19/1989 |
| Sig Strikes Per Min | 4.55 | 4.76 |
| SS Accuracy | 56% | 47% |
| SS Absorbed Per Min | 2.46 | 3.99 |
| SS Defense | 43% | 56% |
| Take Down Avg | 1.41 | 0.40 |
| TD Acc | 35% | 23% |
| TD Def | 54% | 86% |
| Submission Avg | 1.3 | 0.0 |
Krylov has looked sharper in his recent fights than 33-year-old Oezdemir, who looked a step slow in his win over Paul Craig.
The Ukrainian is the larger and more versatile fighter. He should be busier with punches and kicks and likelier to shoot for takedowns. Oezdemir has gotten wobbled more easily in recent fights, so I suspect Krylov may find a chance to finish on the feet against a fighter who is incredibly difficult to take down.
However, Krylov is also prone to defensive mistakes. And Oezdemir may have opportunities to find a finish of his own.
Krylov vs. Oezdemir Pick
I project value both on Krylov by KO/TKO (projected +248, listed +420 at FanDuel) and inside the distance (projected +141, listed +150 at BetMGM).
And I would also bet on Krylov's moneyline at -163 or better.
The Pick: Nikita Krylov wins by KO/TKO (+420, 0.1u at FanDuel), bet to +275 | Nikita Krylov wins Inside the Distance (+150, 0.25u at BetMGM), bet to +150
