MMA Preview – Muhammad Mokaev vs Jafel Filho at UFC 286
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MUHAMMAD MOKAEV VS JAFEL FILHO FACTS
When is UFC 286? Saturday 18th March, 2023 - 19:00 (Prelims) 21:00 (PPV - £19.95)
Where is UFC 286? The O2 Arena, London (UK)
Where can I get tickets for UFC 286? Click here to buy tickets for UFC 286 at the O2 Arena
What channel is UFC 286 on? BT Sport 1
Where can I stream UFC 286? BT Sport subscribers can stream the fight online via the BT Sport website
For viewers in the United States, the event will be shown live on ESPN+ and you can sign up for access as part of a Disney Bundle here!
MUHAMMAD MOKAEV VS JAFEL FILHO LOWDOWN
Muhammad Mokaev (9-0(1)) treks down to London hoping to continue his unbeaten quest towards flyweight gold. He made his UFC debut in the city at UFC Fight Night 204 and started his UFC account with a ‘Performance of the Night’ submitting Cody Durden (2022) in the first round. He returned to London four months later to outpoint Charles Johnson and capped off 2022 with an armbar on Malcolm Gordon.
He welcomes Jafael Filho (14-2) to the octagon who is fresh off his TKO win on the Contender Series. He put Roybert Echeverria away in the third round in September last year to extend his win streak to five which include three knockouts and two submissions.
MUHAMMAD MOKAEV VS JAFEL FILHO PREDICTION
Considering Mokaev’s performances against decent competition, it is surprising to see him take on a debutant. However, Filho is UFC calibre and what makes this interesting is that the Brazilian is also a top grappler and is a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt.
We often see these skill sets cancel each other out, however we expect them to have the ego in proving who’s grappling is superior. Filho has the power advantage, which could be crucial if he decides to let his hands fly.
There are question marks over Mokaev’s defence, but his striking continues to improve. He will be confident wherever the fight goes but as soon as he eats a punch, he will shoot in.
The grappling exchanges will be fascinating and we can see Mokaev’s wrestling subduing Filho who will attack submissions off his back.
This is a very tough fight for Mokaev, but we feel he will win the striking exchanges but ultimately grind out a decision with his wrestling.
Prediction: Mokaev via Decision - CLICK HERE FOR PARIMATCH'S WELCOME OFFER (BET £5, GET £30 IN BONUSES!)
Value bet: Filho to win
