MMA Preview – Trevin Jones vs Timur Valiev at UFC Vegas 7

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THE FACTS

When is UFC on ESPN 15? Sunday 23^rd August, 2020 – 00:00 start (UK)

Where is UFC on ESPN 15? APEX Facility, Las Vegas, Nevada (US)

What channel is UFC on ESPN 15? BT Sport 1

Where can I stream UFC on ESPN 15? BT Sport subscribers can stream the fight online via the BT Sport website

For viewers in the United States, the UFC on ESPN 15 will be shown live on ESPN+ which can you sign up to here!

Where can I get tickets for UFC on ESPN 15? This event will take place without spectators

THE LOWDOWN

Timur Valiev is another MMA talent to come out of Dagestan and the 30-year-old brings an impressive 16-2 record into his UFC debut. His two defeats came on the scorecards with his first being in his first pro fight and he went on to avenge his second loss which was a split decision but beating Chris Gutierrez in an immediate rematch. He has solid power and submission skills, but like so many fighters out of Dagestan, he is an outstanding wrestler and is able to control long spells of his fights which is why he has nine wins via decision.

Valiev was initially scheduled to make his debut at the start of August against Jamall Emmers but that fight fell through and he was slated to face Mark Streigl on this card. That fight also fell through as Streigl tested positive for COVID-19 so Trevin Jones steps up to meet him. ‘5 Star’ Jones makes his UFC debut and he will be eager to grab this opportunity with both hands. He has a 12-6 record and has won his last two bouts via submission but this fight represents a major step up class for him.

THE PREDICTION

Two newcomers to the UFC meet here with the highly-touted Timur Valiev facing off against Trevin Jones who simply has nothing to lose here. Jones has a mediocre 12-6 record but has won six of his last eight fights and he has taken what is an incredibly tough fight in paper. Valiev looks to be yet another superb talent off the Dagestan conveyor belt and he has a chance of making his mark in the bantamweight division. He seven stoppages in his 18-fight career but as the level of quality steps up, decision wins are more likely and he should dominate this fight and pick up a comfortable win on the scorecards if he does not manage a late stoppage.

Winner: Valiev via decision