The UFC basically takes the week of July 4th off. Now, the co-main for the UFC on ESPN 59 event is Santiago Ponzinbbio versus Muslim Salikhov. This is one of those fights that could surprise. With Maycee Barker having to cancel, Cortez is a solid substitute. Now, Ponzinbbio vs Salikhov Picks is a co-main that could show a little potential. After all, no one wants to watch a boring main event.
- What: UFC on ESPN 59: Ponzinbbio vs Salikhov
- When: Saturday, July 13 around 10:00 pm EDT (approximately)
- Where: Ball Arena - Denver, Colorado
Now, everyone knows about the main event in Colorado. Rose Namajunas versus Tracy Cortez could have its own fireworks. Those are two solid flyweights. As for the c0-main, the welterweights here expect to make weight with ease. Simply, let us take a look at the table below for some early numbers.
A Battle Of Old School Fighters
This is a battle of old school fighters. When it comes to the Ponzinbbio vs Salikhov Picks, the reality is one has to look at the ages of these UFC fighters. Ponzinbbio is almost 38 while Salikhov just turned 40 a bit over a month ago. Now, no one is going to confuse these two grapplers as contenders for any welterweight crown. Neither Ponzinbbio or Salikhov are ranked in the Top 20. This keeps UFC Betting Online 2024 on our toes as far as predictions.
We get the rationale for Ponzinbbio being the favorite here. However, there are some general and obvious concerns for both fighters. For Ponzinbbio it is the layoff. Now, this will be a 15-month layoff by the time fight night gets here. Age is a bit of a factor until one considers Salikhov. The only difference is that Salikhov has been more active. The Russian fought twice in this time and though they were both losses, the Brown loss latest only 3:17. So, rest should not be an issue.
Okay, both Welterweights have lost three of their last five bouts. Both were also knocked out in their last fight at around the same time. Yes, there lie plenty of similarities here. Father Time remains undefeated but it will be fun to see two older guys who can still bring the intensity.
Do not doubt either fighter here. Salikhov won the Wushu World Championship and was one of only two non-Chinese fighters to do so. It is one of the more grueling competitions. There is nothing like seeing a Black Belt go up against a Blue Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The hope is to see all sorts of incredible kicks and maybe some good groundwork too. Ponzinbbio still holds the edge based on recent form and technique.
Can Muslim Salikhov Turn Back The Clock?
Can Muslim Salikhov turn back the clock? Again, the troubling part for Salikhov is more than just the age. His form is not quite where it should be. When he fought in February, he did not get many good shots in against Randy Brown. Brown was able to dominate most of that first round before getting in a barrage of punches that Salikhov could not answer. His punching ability is still there but his defense does seem to be lacking.
Yes, against Andre Fialho was one of his finest performances as a UFC fighter. That gave the Russian the Performance Of The Night as he ultimately TKO'd Fialho in Round 3. Salikhov will have to get inside often against Ponzinbbio. He carries at three inch reach advantage and it likely means a more aggressive role.
The idea that helps Salikhov here is his forward nature for this fight and activity. He is in good shape. Simply, if one has the feeling there is one last surprise, that +170 number on Bovada to win is enticing enough to take a flier on. This fight figures to bring a good deal more action than anyone is expecting. After all, this could be Salikhov's last fight in UFC. He will want to go out with a bang!
Ponzinbbio vs Salikhov Picks From A Finishing Perspective
Ponzinbbio vs Salikhov Picks from a finishing perspective are different. So, which fighter could get the jump here and something more than a decision? Ponzinbbio has delivered 22 times when it comes to a KO or submission. Salikhov has 15 KO's/submissions. The feeling is that Ponzinbbio has the longer reach and a little more power with his punches. The Argentinian with Italian heritage expects to use those power punches and jab well.
Fortunately, the Argentine should be able to weather what Salikhov can dish out at him. This is a fight where Ponzinbbio has the slight advantage. It is a two-fold advantage which should serve him well as the rounds go onward. Time is a circle and in the end, the younger fighter should emerge victorious.
Alright, that late knockout or submission looks to be the ideal bet. The method of knockout by punches would be ideal too. Bovada carries the KO/submission option at +175 early but expect this to move. That shows a nod to the two old school fighters who will be duking it out for their careers basically.
Get Those Sporting Bets In
Get those sporting bets in ladies and gentlemen! With many types of sporting bets at the ready, bettors can go from fight props to round props and decisions with an easy click on the laptop or mobile device. Check out all the sportsbooks you can to get the best offers and numbers. Always utilize the best online sportsbook reviews for their list is extensive. Good luck!
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