MMA Match Preview: Bekzat Almakhan (11-2, 0-1 UFC) vs. Brad Katona (14-4, 4-4 UFC)
Date: May 10, 2025
Event: UFC 315
Venue: Bell Centre, Montreal, Canada
Division: Bantamweight (135 lbs)
Broadcast: ESPN+ Pay-Per-View
Fight Overview
Bekzat Almakhan (11-2, 0-1 UFC) takes on Brad Katona (14-4, 4-4 UFC) in a high-stakes bantamweight clash at UFC 315. Almakhan, a rising prospect from Kazakhstan, looks to secure his first UFC victory after a tough debut loss to Umar Nurmagomedov. Meanwhile, Katona, a two-time winner of The Ultimate Fighter, aims to bounce back after a decision loss to Jean Matsumoto.
Fighter Profiles
Bekzat Almakhan (“The Turan Warrior”)
- Record: 11-2 (0-1 UFC)
- Age: 27
- Height: 5’7″
- Reach: 68″
- Fighting Style: Aggressive striker with solid wrestling
- Key Strengths: Explosive power, strong takedown defense
- Recent Fight: Lost via unanimous decision to Umar Nurmagomedov
Almakhan showed promise in his UFC debut, hurting Nurmagomedov early before being outwrestled. His ability to survive against an elite grappler impressed many, and he’ll look to use his physicality and aggression to dictate the pace against Katona.
Brad Katona (“Superman”)
- Record: 14-4 (4-4 UFC)
- Age: 33
- Height: 5’6″
- Reach: 64″
- Fighting Style: Well-rounded technician with strong grappling
- Key Strengths: High fight IQ, cardio, submission skills
- Recent Fight: Lost via unanimous decision to Jean Matsumoto
Katona is consistent but lacks dynamism, often engaging in close, grinding fights. He’s a solid wrestler with good positional control but struggles against explosive strikers. His ability to push the pace and wear down opponents could be key against Almakhan.
Statistical Comparison
| Fighter | Strikes Landed Per Minute | Striking Accuracy | Takedown Average | Takedown Defense |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bekzat Almakhan | 0.20 | 18% | 0.5 per 15 min | 15% |
| Brad Katona | 4.84 | 52% | 1.88 per 15 min | 61% |
Katona has the clear edge in striking volume and accuracy, but Almakhan’s power and aggression could be the difference-maker.
Fight Breakdown & Prediction
1. Can Almakhan’s Power Overwhelm Katona?
Almakhan has the physicality and knockout power to trouble Katona early. If he can stuff takedowns and land clean shots, he could secure a finish.
2. Katona’s Wrestling & Cardio Advantage
Katona thrives in grappling-heavy fights, using his pace and control to grind out decisions. If he can neutralize Almakhan’s striking, he could edge out a win on the scorecards.
FIGHT ODDS
Bekzat Almakhan – 180
Brad Katona + 150
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, May 9, 2025
