Kamaru Usman vs. Khamzat Chimaev: UFC 294 Odds, Prediction

Usman makes his 170-pound debut riding a two-fight losing streak after suffering a majority decision loss to reigning welterweight champ Leon Edwards in their highly anticipated rematch seven months ago at UFC 286. Chimaev is coming off a first-round submission win over Kevin Holland last month at UFC 279 to improve his perfect MMA record to 12-0, and has now finished opponents inside five minutes in four of six octagon appearances since joining the UFC three years ago.

Chimaev has emerged as a heavy -350 favourite on the UFC 294 odds, and also sports intriguing +1300 odds of finishing in 60 seconds or less for the fourth time in his professional MMA career. Usman lags as a +260 underdog.

Kamaru Usman UFC 294 Odds

Usman makes his middleweight debut after enjoying an impressive three-year reign atop the welterweight division including successfully defending the UFC welterweight strap five times. Nicknamed the “Nigerian Nightmare”, Usman is an accomplished wrestler, who possesses the ability to wear down opponents with the ground-and-pound.

Among the all-time UFC welterweight leaders in several categories including wins, win streak, and average fight time, Usman has seen eight of his past 10 fights last into the fifth round. However, he also possesses underrated striking ability, which he has displayed with KO wins over the likes of Colby Covington, Gilbert Burns, and Jorge Masvidal.

Khamzat Chimaev UFC 294 Odds

Khamzat Chimaev has taken the UFC by storm since making his octagon debut in 2020. “Borz” has demonstrated his ability to win, both standing and on the mat. The 29-year-old Chechen has claimed victory by submission in three of his six UFC fights to date, while also recording a pair of convincing KO victories including a speedy victory over Gerald Meerschaert in just 17 seconds in his middleweight debut at UFC Vegas 11.

However, Chimaev is likely to face the toughest challenge of his career against Usman, whose ability to control an opponent on the mat and experience in championship rounds will give him an increasing advantage if this fight goes beyond three rounds.

UFC 294 Prediction: Kamaru Usman vs. Khamzat Chimaev

Chimaev has positioned himself well as a rising star during a tremendous UFC debut, and has earned the short odds he sports ahead of this fight. However, the longer this clash goes, the more likely it will favour the veteran Usman. The big question is whether there is any truth to the rumours that Usman suffered a knee injury while sparring with Justin Gaethje.

Prediction: Usman by decision (+500)