Kamaru Usman vs Khamzat Chimaev Odds & Prediction for UFC 294

• UFC 294 betting odds are live for Usman +275 against Chimaev -350.
• Can former champ Usman snap his current loss streak and hand Chimaev his first loss?
• See the latest prop bets for betting on Usman vs Chimaev at UFC 294.

UFC 294 had another major change this week! Paulo Costa withdrew due to a staph infection, and Kamaru Usman stepped in for the co-main event against Khamzat Chimaev. This will be Usman’s first fight at middleweight, after spending the majority of his UFC run at welterweight. Headling UFC 294 is now a rematch between Islam Makhachev vs Alexander Volkanovski.

We review the latest betting odds and props for Usman vs Chimaev, which should be an epic showdown.

Usman vs Chimaev Odds

BetMGM Sportsbook has Kamaru Usman as a +275 underdog for his UFC 294 showdown against Khamzat Chimaev -350.

Usman has lost his last two bouts to current welterweight champion Leon Edwards and is looking to make a short-notice return against “Borz”. Oddsmakers are favoring Chimaev to hand Usman his third straight loss with an implied win probability of 77.7%. Stay tuned for when props are released for Usman vs Chimaev.

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Kamaru Usman vs Khamzat Chimaev Prediction

“The Nigerian Nightmare,” boasts a solid striking game, landing 4.46 significant strikes per minute with a 52% accuracy rate. He’s defensively responsible with a 54% strike defense, making it hard for opponents to land clean shots.

Chimaev, on the other hand, is a striking machine, landing an impressive 7.30 significant strikes per minute with a 59% accuracy. However, his defense is suspect, with only a 41% strike defense.

In the striking department, Chimaev holds the edge with his higher output and accuracy, but Usman’s experience and defense could level the playing field.

Usman, a former NCAA Division II wrestler, is a grappling powerhouse. He averages 2.96 takedowns per 15 minutes with a 45% takedown accuracy. His takedown defense is near-impenetrable at 97%. Chimaev, however, is an aggressive wrestler, averaging 3.98 takedowns with a remarkable 57% accuracy. His takedown defense is a perfect 100%. Chimaev’s submission average of 3.5 per 15 minutes is a clear indicator of his prowess on the ground.

Chimaev holds the edge in the grappling department, both in takedowns and submissions. However, Usman’s defense might make it hard for Chimaev to implement his game plan.

Usman’s most recent losses were to Leon Edwards, but before that, he had secured wins against Gilbert Burns and Colby Covington. His experience and ability to adapt are crucial strengths. Chimaev’s last fight was a victory against Kevin Holland.

In this epic UFC 294 co-main showdown, Khamzat Chimaev’s striking is a force to be reckoned with, and his wrestling game is top-notch. He can win by keeping the fight standing and utilizing his striking advantage, especially in the earlier rounds. However, he should be cautious about gassing out, as Usman’s experience could lead to a comeback in later rounds.

Kamaru Usman’s path to victory lies in his experience and his takedown defense. If he can weather Chimaev’s early storm and take the fight into deeper waters, his chances of securing a victory increase.

My money is on Chimaev’s explosive start to really put the pressure on Usman. “Borz” trying everything he can to get the former champion out of there.

Betting Pick: Chimaev & Under 2.5 Rounds

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