UFC 254 Card Odds: Magomed Ankalaev vs. Ion Cutelaba Prediction

Mixed martial arts fans will finally get one of the most hotly-anticipated rematches in the light heavyweight division as Magomed Ankalaev (-305) and Ion Cutelaba (+220) square off on the main card of UFC 254 in Abu Dhabi on Saturday. Following Ankalaev’s quick and controversial knockout win in their first bout at the end of February, the talented pair have seen this fight rescheduled three times due to a variety of reasons.

Magomed Ankalaev UFC 254 Odds

Ankalaev is a hefty favorite for the second chapter of his feud with Cutelaba, who was on the wrong end of a questionable stoppage just 38 seconds into their first fight. Ankalaev connected with a flurry of punches that had staggered Cutelaba, but the Moldovan fighter was still on his feet when referee Kevin McDonald rushed in to stop the fight. The win improved Ankalaev’s professional record to 14-1-0 with eight knockouts.

Ankalaev isn’t one to take the fight to the mat (with just two takedowns in his four UFC bouts) but he isn’t a reckless swinger, either. He lands just 3.46 significant strikes per minute, although his 56-percent success rate is cause for concern among his opponents. His striking defence is also superior. He absorbs just 1.26 significant strikes per minute. Ankalaev also boasts an 85-per cent defence rate.

Ion Cutelaba UFC 254 Odds

Cutelaba was steaming after the quick hook in their previous fight, and didn’t need any extra motivation given the bad blood between the fighters heading into their first bout. That animosity has only grown in the last few months, with the fight having been postponed twice due to Cutelaba testing positive for COVID-19 on two separate occasions. Cutelaba needs a strong effort this weekend as he comes in having lost two of his last three fights.

Cutelaba’s hyper-aggressive approach got him into big trouble last time out, but bettors shouldn’t expect that to change. The 26-year-old nicknamed “The Hulk” lands a whopping 5.29 significant strikes per minute. While his success rate doesn’t come close to that of Ankalaev, he only needs one well-placed strike to put his foe in peril. And his 71-percent takedown success rate will force Ankalaev to be mindful of hitting the mat.

Ankalaev vs. Cutelaba UFC 254 Prediction

This fight shouldn’t last long – but who will be the one to land the knockout blow(s)? Ankalaev has the skill set to outlast Cutelaba’s initial flurry. He’s careful enough with his own strikes to take advantage of any openings Cutelaba might create too. We’re leaning toward an Ankalaev second-round TKO.