Our Alexander Volkov vs. Rizvan Kuniev prediction focuses on an intriguing heavyweight showdown on Saturday's UFC 333 main card at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi.
Second-ranked Volkov looks to strengthen his case for a long-awaited title shot against seventh-ranked Kuniev, whose toughness and recent success have earned him a place among the division's contenders.
Check out the latest UFC 333 odds and free picks for Saturday's heavyweight clash.
Alexander Volkov vs Rizvan Kuniev predictions for UFC 333
| Pick |  Probability |
|---|---|
| Who will win: Volkov | 53% |
| Method of finish: Decision | 68% |
| Volkov to win by decision | 58% |
| Combo | 56% |
Percentages courtesy of Kalshi, one of the best prediction market apps.
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Who will win Alexander Volkov vs Rizvan Kuniev: Alexander Volkov (53% Probability)
Alexander Volkov is my pick at UFC 333. Kuniev deserves credit for beating Jailton Almeida, but he's still a bruiser who relies on toughness and wide, looping punches rather than technical precision.
He can wrestle, but hasn't consistently demonstrated that he can transition to offensive grappling when his striking isn't working. Against a top-three heavyweight with Volkov's reach, experience, and fight IQ, that's a serious problem. I expect Volkov to win the cleaner exchanges.
Alexander Volkov vs Rizvan Kuniev top pick: Method of finish — Decision (68% Probability)
This fight ending via decision is my top pick. Kuniev is a durable heavyweight who can make fights uncomfortable, but he isn't the kind of relentless offensive wrestler who will put Volkov on his back and keep him there.
Kuniev's toughness should allow him to withstand that offense, but his wide punches and limited adjustments will make it difficult to consistently close the distance. I expect Volkov to control the striking exchanges without finding a finish, resulting in a tactical three-round fight.
COVERS INTEL: Alexander Volkov has gone the distance in each of his last three fights, including decision victories over Jailton Almeida and Waldo Cortes-Acosta.Alexander Volkov vs Rizvan Kuniev prop: Volkov to win by decision (58% Probability)
Volkov by decision is my preferred prop. Kuniev is tough enough to withstand Volkov's offense, but toughness alone isn't going to beat a technician of his caliber.
Volkov owns significant advantages in height, reach, and experience, and his ability to manage distance should neutralize Kuniev's looping punches. Unless Kuniev commits to a sustained wrestling attack, I expect Volkov to outthink and outpoint him over three rounds.
Alexander Volkov vs Rizvan Kuniev combo
Kuniev's toughness should prevent an early finish, but his inability to consistently adjust will make it difficult to win rounds against the more experienced fighter. I'm backing Volkov to control the distance and emerge with another decision victory.
Alexander Volkov vs Rizvan Kuniev odds
|
||
|---|---|---|
| Method of Victory | Alexander Volkov | Rizvan Kuniev |
| To win outright | 57% | 43% |
| To win by KO/TKO | 21% | 12% |
| To win by decision | 58% | 32% |
| To win by submission | 8% | 9% |
| Fight will go the distance | Yes 63% |
No 37% |
Odds as of 10-22.
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Alexander Volkov vs Rizvan Kuniev tale of the tape
| Alexander Volkov | Rizvan Kuniev | |
|---|---|---|
| 37 | Age | 34 |
| 6-foot-7 | Height | 6-foot-4 |
| Heavyweight | Weight Class | Heavyweight |
| 80 inches | Reach | 76 inches |
| 40-11 | Record | 14-3-1 |
| 24 | Wins by KO | 7 |
| 4 | Wins by submission | 2 |
Volkov holds significant physical advantages, standing three inches taller with four inches of additional reach. He also brings considerably more professional experience, having fought 51 times compared to Kuniev's 18.
Although Kuniev is younger and has demonstrated that he can compete against established heavyweights, Volkov's superior technical striking and experience against elite opposition should make the difference.
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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