UFC 321: Aleksandar Rakić vs. Azamat Murzakanov Predictions & Odds

An exciting light heavyweight fight will be part of the UFC 321 main card on Oct. 25, as Aleksandar Rakić takes on the undefeated Azamat Murzakanov inside Etihad Arena in Yas Island, UAE.

Because of his undefeated pro record, Murzakanov will be the slight betting favorite with -115 UFC odds. Meanwhile, Rakić’s three-fight losing streak was the biggest factor in his role as the slight betting underdog with +105 odds.

UFC 321: Rakic vs. Murzakanov Odds

• Aleksandar Rakić: +105
• Azamat Murzakanov: -115

UFC 321: Rakic vs. Murzakanov: Prediction

I predict a TKO/KO finish for Murzakanov against Rakić because of the atomic power he has in his left hand. Not only does he possess tremendous power, but he’s also very technical and light on his feet.

Aside from the very technical approach, the Russian contender is also very disciplined in his defense because he doesn’t overextend and effectively blocks kicks and punches. Furthermore, he has great footwork to boot.

Meanwhile, Rakić is very heavy on his attack, often loading up on his kicks and punches. His kicks are his most effective attack, targeting the inside legs and head of his opponents. Additionally, he does a great job of maximizing his reach and leg reach advantages during fights.

But Rakić has been knocked out multiple times before, and this proves that his chin has been compromised and couldn’t handle power punches. Once Murzakanov hits it clean, I think that this fight will be over.

Aleksandar Rakic’s Recent Fight Results

Rakić was a highly touted prospect in 2017, with an 8-1 pro record when the UFC signed him. He swept his first four fights in the octagon with wins over Francimar Barroso, Justin Ledet, Devin Clark, and Jimi Manuwa.

But after that impressive streak, he only won two of his next six bouts, with wins over Anthony Smith and Thiago Santos. His losses were courtesy of Volkan Oezdemir, Jan Blachowicz, Jiri Prochazka, and, most recently, Magomed Ankalaev.

Azamat Murzakanov’s Recent Fight Results

Murzakanov was a European MMA circuit standout before he joined Dana White’s Contender Series in September 2021. His first-round stoppage of Matheus Scheffel instantly earned him a UFC contract.

He made his promotional debut against Tafon Nchukwi and scored a third-round finish in March 2022. Murzakanov remained undefeated in the UFC with wins over Devin Clark, Dustin Jacoby, Alonzo Menifield, and, most recently, Brendson Ribeiro.

UFC 321: Rakic vs. Murzakanov: Tale of the Tape