UFC Qatar – Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev v Rafael Cerqueira Predictions, Betting Odds And Best Bets

Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev vs Rafael Cerqueira matchup features undefeated finishing power against a struggling veteran desperate for his first UFC victory. These contenders will clash at UFC Qatar this weekend.

Yakhyaev stands 6’2″ with a 78 inch reach and a perfect 7-0 record. He showcases explosive striking at an astronomical 32.00 per minute with elite 88% accuracy while absorbing minimal 2.00. His striking defense sits at excellent 66% and his grappling remains untested with 0.00 takedowns per fight at 0% accuracy and 0.0 submission attempts. He has a flawless 100% takedown defense that keeps scrambles in his favor when opponents shoot.

Cerqueira measures 6’3″ with a 76 inch reach and 11-3 record. He showcases minimal striking at just 1.61 per minute with 44% accuracy while absorbing catastrophic 4.88. His striking defense registers at alarming 36% and his grappling presents no threat with 0.00 takedowns per fight at 0% accuracy and 0.0 submission attempts. He has a concerning 40% takedown defense that presents severe vulnerability against wrestling-heavy opponents.

Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev vs Rafael Cerqueira Predictions And Picks

This fight breaks down to whether Yakhyaev’s undefeated momentum and overwhelming striking metrics can demolish Cerqueira’s winless UFC struggles. Yakhyaev holds absolutely dominant advantages in every statistical category. His recent Dana White’s Contender Series knockout victory, finishing in just 30 seconds, demonstrates explosive finishing ability that creates immediate danger.

Cerqueira’s aggressive striking style without distance control leaves his chin exposed constantly, perfect conditions for Yakhyaev’s explosive combinations. Yakhyaev’s overwhelming advantages in every metric should produce destruction. His ability to close distance quickly while mixing takedowns creates unavoidable finishing scenarios for Cerqueira. 

If we bet on this fight, we are going with Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev to win via KO/TKO.

Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev vs Rafael Cerqueira MMA Betting Odds

Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev enters as the card’s heaviest favorite at -1600 on FanDuel. Meanwhile, Rafael Cerqueira comes in as the massive +900 underdog. The lopsided odds reflect Yakhyaev’s undefeated record, dominant metrics, and Cerqueira’s winless UFC struggles creating the most one-sided matchup at UFC Qatar.

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The odds for the fight going the distance stand at +610. The overwhelming odds favor an early finish at -1100, reflecting Yakhyaev’s six career finishes and Cerqueira’s defensive vulnerabilities.

Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev vs Rafael Cerqueira Best Bets

Here are the best bets for Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev vs Rafael Cerqueira fight:

Yakhyaev to Win in Round 1 (-185)

Best value on the overwhelming favorite’s most likely outcome. His 30-second Contender Series knockout and Cerqueira’s catastrophic 36% striking defense create perfect first-round finishing conditions.

Yakhyaev by KO/TKO in Round 1 (+110)

Excellent odds for the specific finish method and timing. Cerqueira’s two UFC knockout losses and 4.88 strikes absorbed per minute prove vulnerability to power strikers. Yakhyaev’s explosive combinations and ability to close distance quickly should produce violent early stoppage within opening minutes.

Under 1.5 Rounds (-315)

Safe bet despite steep odds. Yakhyaev has reached decision just once in seven fights, while Cerqueira’s defensive breakdowns ensure early finish. The massive skill disparity and Cerqueira’s potential UFC release situation make this the safest play. 

(All odds taken from FanDuel. Bet on the most up-to-date MMA odds, lines, and spreads with FanDuel Sportsbook)

(Image Credit: Steven Bisig – Imagn Images)

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I am a dedicated MMA and Boxing content writer at The Playoffs. I was instantly hooked on MMA after watching the fight between Lyoto Machida vs. Gegard Mousasi back in 2014, and since then, i have been an avid writer with a deep love for the sport and its techniques, providing readers with a thorough understanding of the sport. My favorite aspect of working at The Playoffs is the creative freedom it provides. The diverse range of topics, from listicles and SEO to news articles, keeps me engaged and motivates me to continuously improve my skills! I aim to capture the excitement of the combat sports world in my writing, acting as the middleman between fighters and their die-hard fans. It is kind of like a referee, but with words!

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