UFC News & FeaturesBantamweights
Qileng Aori (24-9, 2-2 UFC) vs. Aiemann Zahabi (9-2, 3-2 UFC)ODDS: Aori (-125), Zahabi (+105)
Even after six years on the UFC roster, Zahabi is a bit hard to pin down as a fighter. Part of that is due to the Canadian’s inactivity—he makes it to the cage at a rate of less than one fight per year—but he is also something of a patient and formless fighter, making a lot of his bouts a referendum on his opponent. Zahabi’s 2021 fight against Drako Rodriguez ended in a quick knockout that was the biggest flash of brilliance that he has shown in his UFC career. However, a July win over Ricky Turcios was another fight that did not center on Zahabi, who mostly held steady while his counterpart implemented an inefficient approach that took himself out of the fight. There is much less to parse when it comes to Zahabi’s next opponent. If his nickname of “The Mongolian Murderer” was not enough of a hint, Aori fights with plenty of aggression and worries about the rest later. That makes for a fun contrast here, since Zahabi is a potent enough counterpuncher that he could absolutely nuke Aori; and if the Canadian actually looks to press the action, Aori’s takedown defense has looked poor enough for Zahabi’s wrestling to serve as a clear path to victory. Still, the bet is that the Chinese fighter wins a close fight on pace and activity, even if this is a coinflip in practice. The pick is Aori via decision.
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