The UFC middleweight division features an intriguing Dustin Stoltzfus vs Nursulton Ruziboev matchup on Saturday, May 17, 2025. This bout is a clash between Stoltzfus’s grappling and all-around expertise and Ruziboev’s striking power, promising an engaging contest for fight fans and bettors.

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Dustin Stoltzfus vs Nursulton Ruziboev Preview
Dustin Stoltzfus enters the octagon with a professional record of 16 wins and 6 losses. Known for his grappling skills, Stoltzfus has secured 6 victories by submission, showcasing his proficiency on the ground. Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 185 pounds, he brings a balanced approach to his fights, combining striking and grappling techniques effectively.
Nursulton Ruziboev, hailing from Uzbekistan, boasts an impressive record of 35 wins, 9 losses, and 2 draws. Standing at 6 feet 5 inches, he possesses a significant height advantage in the middleweight division. Ruziboev has demonstrated his striking prowess with 13 knockout victories and has also secured 20 wins by submission, indicating his versatility as a fighter. In his most recent bout on February 22, 2025, he achieved a second-round TKO victory over Eric McConico, reaffirming his striking capabilities.
This matchup pits Stoltzfus’ ground game against Ruziboev’s striking and submission skills. Stoltzfus will likely aim to take the fight to the ground to neutralize Ruziboev’s reach and striking advantage, while Ruziboev will seek to keep the fight standing to leverage his height and striking power.
Betting Insights
- Moneyline Odds: Nursulton Ruziboev: -313, Dustin Stoltzfus: +240
- Method of Victory:
- Ruziboev by KO/TKO: -127
- Ruziboev by Submission: +620
- Stoltzfus by Submission: +680
- Stoltzfus by Decision: +640
- Over/Under Rounds: Over 1.5: -107, Under 1.5: -125
Ruziboev enters the fight as the favorite, with the above odds from Sportzino reflecting his recent performances and striking capabilities. Bettors considering Stoltzfus may find value in the submission and decision lines, given his grappling background.
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Dustin Stoltzfus vs Nursulton Ruziboev Prediction
Stoltzfus’ path to victory likely involves taking the fight to the ground and controlling Ruziboev to seek a submission or accumulate points for a decision. However, Ruziboev’s reach and striking power pose significant challenges for Stoltzfus in closing the distance without absorbing damage.
Ruziboev’s recent performances, including a second-round TKO over Eric McConico, demonstrate his ability to finish fights with striking. His height and reach advantage will be crucial in keeping Stoltzfus at bay and preventing takedown attempts. Additionally, Ruziboev’s submission victories indicate that he is comfortable on the ground, reducing the risk if the fight goes to the mat.
Considering these factors, Ruziboev’s versatility and striking advantage make him the likely victor in this matchup. While Stoltzfus has the skills to secure a submission, the challenge of closing the distance and taking Ruziboev down without sustaining significant damage may prove difficult.
Prediction: Nursulton Ruziboev wins via TKO in Round 2.