Sherdog analysts highlight Magomed parlay for UFC Abu Dhabi

Sherdog analysts have released betting recommendations for the upcoming UFC event in Abu Dhabi, with a particular focus on a distinctive three-leg parlay featuring fighters who share the name Magomed. The preview, part of the publication’s “Prime Picks” series, offers a lighter, conversational analysis compared to its formal preview columns, aiming to provide additional context amidst an exploding sports betting market driven by legalisation in the United States.

The featured parlay combines Magomed Ankalaev, Magomed Zaynukov, and Magomed Tuchalov. Analysts describe the selection as a “namesake” parlay, noting that Magomed is the Russian transliteration of Muhammad. While Muhammad Said shares the etymological root, he was excluded from the bet due to searchability issues. All three fighters are listed as clear favourites, with the analysts arguing that individual moneyline bets offer poor value compared to the combined multiplier of the parlay.

Magomed Ankalaev is analysed as having a clear path to victory against Bogdan Guskov. Despite Guskov’s reputation as a striker, analysts suggest Ankalaev’s threat of takedowns allows him to control the pace, a strategy he employed against Alex Pereira. Magomed Zaynukov is highlighted for his pace and conditioning against Damian Rzepecki. Although Rzepecki holds more experience and stoppages, Zaynukov’s ability to grind opponents down is seen as a decisive factor, particularly given his background in the Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov School.

Magomed Tuchalov, making his promotional debut with a 100% finish rate, is matched against Brendson Ribeiro. Ribeiro has suffered three consecutive first-round stoppage losses, offering up minimal significant strikes and succumbing to takedowns in recent bouts. Tuchalov’s style is viewed as well-suited to replicate the strategies used by previous opponents to defeat Ribeiro, though the -900 odds make him best suited as an attachment to a larger parlay rather than a standalone bet.

For the heavyweight bout between Valter Walker and Thomas Petersen, analysts recommend a more cautious approach. Walker, known as a “meme fighter” for his frequent attempts at heel hooks, faces a high-risk scenario as accomplished fighters often defend against the submission by punching. Rather than betting on a first-round submission, the recommendation is to back Walker to win by any method before the final buzzer. This broader window accounts for potential knockouts or victories in later rounds, mitigating the risk associated with Walker’s specific submission game.