Muslim Salikhov and Carlos Leal are set to fight at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi on Saturday. Salikhov, known for his spinning kicks and experience, is entering the welterweight match following a notable win in November. Leal is fresh from a dominant first-round TKO victory this past March and is the favorite in this bout. For more on this matchup, read on for my prediction on Muslim Salikhov vs Carlos Leal.
Our Muslim Salikhov vs Carlos Leal Pick
- Pick: Carlos Leal to win by TKO/KO
- Confidence: ★★★★☆
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Tale of the Tape
| Muslim Salikhov | Carlos Leal | |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 41 | 31 |
| Reach | 70″ | 72″ |
| Stance | Orthodox | Orthodox |
| Record | 21‑5‑0 | 22‑6‑0 |
Muslim Salikhov vs Carlos Leal Preview
Muslim Salikhov is known for his unorthodox striking and spinning attacks. He achieved a spinning wheel kick knockout in his November match against Song Kenan and a split-decision win over Santiago Ponzinibbio in July 2024. With 14 of his 21 wins by KO, his finishing rate is impressive. He’s received three performance bonuses in the UFC but is starting to show signs of waning pace and durability at 41. Carlos Leal, younger than Salikhov, offers heavy boxing with pressure and precise timing. His decisive TKO against Alex Morono at UFC 313 showcased his ability, as he trapped Morono against the cage, delivering a fierce barrage to secure the stoppage just before round one’s end. That victory was his first in the UFC Octagon, bringing his UFC record to 1‑1. Holding a two-inch reach advantage, his youth could enable him to gain control on Saturday.
Betting Insights
- Leal is a heavy favorite at -500, while Salikhov is a +380 underdog.
- Excitement is anticipated as the over/under is set at 1.5 rounds, with the over juiced to -154.
- Leal’s last five matches ended with knockouts.
- Four of Salikhov’s last six matches concluded inside the distance.
Salikhov vs Leal Prediction
A knockout seems likely in this fight, but the question remains as to who will achieve it. While Salikhov has demonstrated his knockout potential throughout his MMA career, his prime appears to be past. I predict Leal will control the pace by consistently pressuring the slower Salikhov. My choice is for Le
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