MMA Fight Preview: Brendson Ribeiro (16-7-0-1) vs. Diyar Nurgozhay (10-0)
The upcoming MMA match between Brendson Ribeiro and Diyar Nurgozhay at UFC Fight Night 254 on Saturday, March 15, 2025, is set to be a thrilling encounter.
Fighter Overview
Brendson Ribeiro (“The Gorilla”)
Record: 16-7-0 (1 NC)
Height: 6’3″
Weight: 205 lbs
Reach: 81″
Stance: Orthodox
Striking Accuracy: 42%
Takedown Accuracy: 50%
Submission Average: 0.4 per 15 minutes
Diyar Nurgozhay
Record: 10-0-0
Height: 6’2″
Weight: 205 lbs
Reach: 74″
Stance: Southpaw
Striking Accuracy: 52%
Takedown Accuracy: 0%
Submission Average: 0.0 per 15 minutes
Recent Form
Brendson Ribeiro
Ribeiro has shown resilience and adaptability in the cage, securing a victory against Caio Machado in his last outing. His grappling prowess has been a key factor in his fights, averaging 1.27 takedowns per 15 minutes and occasionally securing submissions.
Diyar Nurgozhay
Nurgozhay continues to dominate the light heavyweight division with his impeccable record. His recent victory over Szewczyk further cemented his reputation as a tactically astute fighter. With a striking defense at 66% and absorbing just 2.70 strikes per minute, Nurgozhay maintains control throughout his fights with strategic striking and minimal damage taken.
Key Statistics
Strikes Landed per Minute (SLpM): Nurgozhay 3.52, Ribeiro 3.16
Striking Defense: Nurgozhay 66%, Ribeiro 54%
Takedown Defense: Nurgozhay 100%, Ribeiro 0%
Matchup Breakdown
Striker vs. Grappler
This battle pits Nurgozhay’s precise southpaw striking against Ribeiro’s orthodox, reach-advantaged grappling approach. Nurgozhay’s 52% striking accuracy will be crucial as he faces a fighter whose defense might not be impervious but is backed by a reach that can control distance and pace.
The key for Ribeiro will be to leverage his 7-inch reach advantage and 50% takedown accuracy to offset Nurgozhay’s perfect takedown defense.
Brendson Ribeiro + 225
Diyar Nurgozhay – 275
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, March 14, 2025
