Damir Ismagulov (-110) vs. Grant Dawson (-110)

An amazing Co-Main Event we have here as Damir Ismagulov comes to defend his #12 Lightweight ranking against a surging Grant Dawson (#15 Lightweight). Dawson also looking to continue his climb up the rankings as well as continue his unbeaten streak going back to 2016.

Both fighters have proven their skills thus far in the UFC but Ismagulov will have the huge striking advantage on the feet and the better wrestling on the mat. On the feet Ismagulov is the more technical striker and will look to maintain his distance, check kicks and find counter shots. After Dawson’s last fight against Mark Madsen I do question his striking ability as a whole and began to wonder about his chin as he did get sat down in the opening round against a 38 year old Greco- Roman wrestler. I noticed Dawson loves using the cage to set up his takedowns and Ismagulov’s takedown defense is very solid as he keeps his hips square to the cage and finds the under hooks well. Both fighters have solid cardio but Dawson will begin to slow down after the first 7.5 minutes if his wrestling is unsuccessful.

Damir Ismagulov suffered his first loss in 8 years in his last fight against Arman Tsarukyan but defended 14 of 21 relentless takedowns going on to lose a decision to the #8 contender in the division. I believe Damir will have wrestling defense to keep this fight standing and will pick Dawson apart with his striking and could potentially find the TKO late. Damir Ismagulov looks to get back on track here with a win in a stacked Lightweight Division!

Official Pick- Damir Ismagulov (-110)