UFC 294: Usman vs. Chimaev 10/21/23 – Gear up for a colossal showdown as UFC 294 graces the combat world, hosting a bout between Kamaru “THE NIGERIAN NIGHTMARE” Usman and Khamzat “BORZ” Chimaev. The event, scheduled for October 21, 2023, promises to be nothing short of electrifying. For those searching for the latest free MMA predictions, you’ve stumbled upon the right place. Dive deep with us as we dissect each fighter’s stats, strengths, and performance histories, preparing you for a spectacle of pure martial artistry.
UFC 294: Usman vs. Chimaev 10/21/23 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, October 21, 2023 at 2:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
Kamaru “The Nigerian Nightmare” Usman
Kamaru Usman, with an imposing record of 20-3-0, stands as one of the stalwarts in the MMA scene. His approach to fights is evidently more calculated, given his average fight duration of 17:35. This suggests a fighter who is patient, studies his opponents, and waits for the opportune moment to strike or execute a game plan. Delving deeper into his striking statistics, Usman exhibits consistency by landing 4.46 significant strikes per minute, complemented by a 52% accuracy rate. This combo of precision and power often leaves adversaries on the back foot.
On the grappling spectrum, Usman exhibits a blend of aggression and defense. With 2.96 takedowns every 15 minutes and an impressive accuracy of 45%, he showcases his ability to dictate where the fight goes. However, what genuinely separates Usman from many in his weight class is his near-perfect takedown defense of 97%. It’s evident that once he’s on his feet, keeping him down becomes an almost herculean task. The recent hiccup against Edwards does introduce some questions about potential chinks in his armor, especially as he faces a fighter with the momentum that Chimaev possesses.
Khamzat “Borz” Chimaev
Khamzat Chimaev bursts onto the scene as a prodigious talent, evident from his unblemished record of 12-0-0. The sheer aggression and dominance he brings are underscored by an astoundingly short average fight time of 5:01, indicating that he prefers to dismantle opponents rapidly, not giving them a moment’s reprieve. When examining his striking, Chimaev’s stats reveal a fighter in love with the offensive. A rate of 7.30 significant strikes per minute and a commendable accuracy of 59% hint at a style that relentlessly pressures opponents. But this all-out aggression does have its trade-offs, most notably in the relatively high 3.98 strikes he absorbs every minute and a defense rate of just 41%.
Yet, it’s in the grappling realm where Chimaev truly exhibits unparalleled prowess. Averaging 3.98 takedowns in a 15-minute window with a 57% accuracy is impressive in itself, but coupling that with an unmatched takedown defense of 100% is simply astounding. Furthermore, his ability to not just take the fight to the ground but also to end it there is highlighted by his staggering 3.5 submission average every 15 minutes. His victory against Holland in his recent outing is a testament to his current form, and many believe he’s only scratching the surface of his potential.
Kamaru Usman vs. Khamzat Chimaev Stats
| Usman | Chimaev | |
| Wins/Losses/Draws | 20-3-0 | 12-0-0 |
| Average Fight Time | 17:35 | 5:01 |
| Height | 6′ 0″ | 6′ 2″ |
| Weight | 170 lbs. | 185 lbs. |
| Reach | 76″ | 75″ |
| Stance | Switch | Orthodox |
| Strikes Landed per Min. | 4.46 | 7.30 |
| Striking Accuracy | 52% | 59% |
| Strikes Absorbed per Min. | 2.75 | 3.98 |
| Defense | 54% | 41% |
| Takedowns Average/15 min. | 2.96 | 3.98 |
| Takedown Accuracy | 45% | 57% |
| Takedown Defense | 97% | 100% |
| Submission Average/15 min. | 0.1 | 3.5 |
Kamaru Usman vs. Khamzat Chimaev Free Pick
Given the detailed statistics and recent performances, the scales seem to tip slightly in Chimaev’s favor. Despite Usman’s stellar record and expertise, Chimaev’s aggressive approach, superior grappling statistics, and undefeated streak make him a formidable contender. Taking into account all factors, our pick for this much-anticipated fight is Khamzat “BORZ” Chimaev.
Free Pick: Khamzat “Borz” Chimaev -270
As the octagon awaits two of its finest fighters, fans are in for a treat. Kamaru Usman and Khamzat Chimaev both bring a unique set of skills to the table, with each possessing the ability to claim victory. However, based on an analytical breakdown and pro handicapper picks, Chimaev seems to hold a slight edge. As always in MMA, unpredictability reigns supreme, but the data leans towards Chimaev continuing his unbeaten streak. Prepare for an unforgettable bout at UFC 294!