Tagir Ulanbekov vs. Cody Durden 12/16/23 – UFC 296 is set for Saturday, December 16th, 2023 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, with an exciting flyweight bout between Tagir Ulanbekov and Cody Durden. Ulanbekov has a three-inch reach advantage which could help him dictate the distance. But Durden has better offensive wrestling stats. This sets up an intriguing striker versus grappler matchup. For those seeking some free MMA advice on this matchup, let’s dive into the tale of the tape.
Tagir Ulanbekov vs. Cody Durden 12/16/23 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, December 16, 2023 at 6:00 PM ET |
| Where: | T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
Tagir Ulanbekov Analysis
Tagir Ulanbekov is an extremely well-rounded fighter with improving skills each time he steps in the Octagon. His background has provided a strong foundation for his takedown defense and ability to control opponents in the clinch. On the feet, Ulanbekov has very technical and accurate striking. He lands 3.35 significant strikes per minute at an efficient 44% accuracy rate. His defensive skills are also sound, as he avoids 54% of the strikes thrown his way by utilizing excellent footwork and head movement. Ulanbekov excels at working behind a long jab to set up powerful straight punches down the middle. He also mixes in effective leg and body kicks.
Though his offensive wrestling stats don’t jump off the page, Ulanbekov still secures takedowns when needed at a 42% clip. More importantly, he stops over 60% of takedowns against him. Even when pressed against the cage, Ulanbekov remains extremely difficult to get to the mat. He is adept at framing, pummeling underhooks, and using his leverage to shuck off lifting attempts. In his last fight against Maness, Ulanbekov had another masterful showing over three rounds. He stuffed all but one takedown try from the aggressive wrestler while showcasing his technical kickboxing skills. Ulanbekov constantly landed two and three-punch combinations right down the middle, disrupting any offensive rhythm from Maness. Even in the few clinch exchanges, Ulanbekov out-positioned his opponent before separating back to his preferred range.
Cody Durden Analysis
Cody Durden brings relentless pressure each time he steps into the cage. A former collegiate wrestler, he has leveraged those skills into an excellent MMA grappling attack. If Durden manages to back an opponent up or pin them against the fence, explosive shots are sure to follow. He currently averages a whopping 5.41 takedowns per 15 minutes while finishing 50% of attempts. And when Durden completes takedowns, he is a huge submission threat. While hunting for takedowns, Durden sets up his entries well by leading with looping punches that often back opponents up near the cage. He also packs power in his hands, with several knockout wins coming by way of heavy hooks early in fights.
If the fight does hit the mat, Durden is very aggressive hunting for submissions and dominant positions. He already owns six career submission victories. From top control, Durden floats between mount, back mount, and side control while fishing for chokes and cranks. If taken down himself, he is also comfortable working off his back and throwing up armbars or triangles while looking to stand back up. Durden recently took out hyped up-and-comer Hadley, making it four wins in his last five fights overall. As soon as the fight started, Durden marched forward and corralled Buys against the fence, ripping elbows and uppercuts upstairs. He couldn’t quite finish the takedown in round one but the damage was done through striking exchanges in the clinch.
Tagir Ulanbekov vs. Cody Durden Stats
| Ulanbekov | Durden | |
| Wins/Losses/Draws | 14-2-0 | 16-4-1 |
| Average Fight Time | 11:48 | 10:03 |
| Height | 5′ 7″ | 5′ 7″ |
| Weight | 125 lbs. | 125 lbs. |
| Reach | 70″ | 67″ |
| Stance | Southpaw | Southpaw |
| Strikes Landed per Min. | 3.35 | 3.13 |
| Striking Accuracy | 44% | 49% |
| Strikes Absorbed per Min. | 3.29 | 2.94 |
| Defense | 54% | 52% |
| Takedowns Average/15 min. | 3.81 | 5.41 |
| Takedown Accuracy | 42% | 50% |
| Takedown Defense | 61% | 80% |
| Submission Average/15 min. | 0.9 | 0.4 |
Tagir Ulanbekov vs. Cody Durden Betting Pick
After analyzing both fighters’ styles and recent performances, our prediction for the UFC 296 Flyweight bout leans towards Cody Durden. Durden’s slightly higher striking accuracy, coupled with his superior grappling statistics, particularly his takedown defense, gives him a tactical edge over Ulanbekov. Durden’s ability to control the pace of the fight and his effectiveness in both stand-up and ground exchanges make him a strong contender for the win in this matchup.
Free Pick: Cody Durden +145
In summary, handicapping services and analyses suggest Cody Durden as the more likely victor in the upcoming bout against Tagir Ulanbekov at UFC 296. Durden’s balanced approach in striking and exceptional grappling abilities, along with his impressive takedown defense, position him as a formidable opponent in this highly anticipated Flyweight clash. While Ulanbekov’s skills and record are commendable, Durden’s overall fighting style and recent form seem to give him the upper hand in this exciting matchup.