Preview: UFC 295 Prelims

Lightweights

Nazim Sadykhov (9-1, 2-0 UFC) vs. Viacheslav Borshchev (7-3, 2-2 UFC)

ODDS: Sadykhov (-135), Borshchev (+114)

This pairing checks the boxes as a solid litmus test for both fighters while also providing a potential banger for the audience. Azerbaijan’s Sadykhov is an interesting prospect, as his tools have translated into consistent success but never quite as cleanly as expected. Sadykhov is a solid pressure fighter with the type of grit and power that should net him some easy money, but his Dana White’s Contender Series win and two UFC victories have been wars of attrition, with “Black Wolf” either fighting relatively even or finding himself in a hole for a round or two before pouring on offense for a finish. For now, Sadykhov has the durability to keep gutting out wins, and there is the sense that if things fully click, he could accomplish some impressive things. This fight against Borshchev would be a nice time for him to make a leap. Russia’s “Slava Claus” is a much more cut-and-dry fighter—a fun, diverse striker and perennially tough out who, despite some clear progress, still has some clear liabilities in the form of his takedown defense. If Borshchev can keep a fight standing, he has a solid chance of knocking out anyone on the roster. His May win over Hayisaer Maheshate was an impressive example of him blasting a much larger and more physically gifted opponent. Sadykhov looks to have the wrestling and grappling chops to get this done in theory but possibly not the disposition to take this fight in practice. What little wrestling he has done has mostly been as a backup plan, as he would much rather go toe to toe on the feet. Beyond the chance of Borshchev finding a knockout, the read is that while Sadykhov might eventually pivot to making this a control-heavy affair, he will probably do so only once his counterpart has established himself as the harder shot-for-shot striker; and it remains unclear if Sadykhov can fully make up that difference on the mat. The pick is Borshchev via decision.

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