The upcoming flyweight clash between Tagir Ulanbekov and Azat Maksum on June 21, 2025, features a stylistic battle. Ulanbekov, a seasoned 33‑year‑old Russian grappler, faces the 30‑year‑old Kazakh striker Maksum. Let’s break down the action ahead of this key preliminary fight in Baku. Keep reading to get our Tagir Ulanbekov vs Azat Maksum prediction for Saturday’s matchup.
Our Tagir Ulanbekov vs Azat Maksum Pick
- Pick: Tagir Ulanbekov to win
- Confidence: ★★★★☆
- Bonus Bets For the Fight: Receive up to $1,500 in bonus bets if your first bet doesn’t win with BetMGM bonus code ATSBONUS
Tale of the Tape
| Tagir Ulanbekov | Azat Maksum | |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 33 | 30 |
| Reach | 70 in | 70 in |
| Stance | Southpaw | Southpaw |
| Record | 16‑2‑0 (5-1 in UFC) | 15‑1‑0 (1-1 in UFC) |
Tagir Ulanbekov vs Azat Maksum Preview
Ulanbekov’s profile centers on elite wrestling and sambo, holding a strong takedown rate of 47% and defending his opponents’ attempts effectively as well. With eight submission victories in MMA, he poses a threat on the mat. His ground game allows him to control the pace and neutralize opponents with consistent top pressure.
Maksum brings an impressive all-around game to the octagon. He’s landed four knockout wins and six submissions in his career. In the UFC so far, he’s split two fights 1‑1, dropping a decision to Charles Johnson but earning a split decision over Tyson Nam before that. His loss to Johnson was his first in professional MMA, and it will be interesting to see how he responds to adversity for the first time in his career.
The big question in this fight is can Maksum keep it standing and avoid the mat? Or will Ulanbekov secure takedowns and impose control through grappling?
Betting Insights
- Moneyline odds: Ulanbekov is the strong favourite across sportsbooks, entering at -450 at BetMGM. Maksum is a +340 underdog there.
- Total Rounds: A full three-round fight is the expectation going into this fight. Over 2.5 rounds is trading at -260, while the under is +195 for those who think an early ending is on the way.
- Value angles: Small live underdog on Maksum could pay if he lands early or avoids takedowns. But the safer play is to back Ulanbekov’s grappling advantage with live bets targeting later rounds or method of victory bets via decision/submission.
Tagir Ulanbekov vs Azat Maksum Prediction
My pick is Tagir Ulanbekov to win this fight via submission. His takedown accuracy and dominant wrestling make him the logical favorite. The stats show he will control where the fight goes. Maksum’s striking is dangerous, but unless he can keep this bout vertical for three full rounds and avoid takedowns, he’s unlikely to win. Ulanbekov’s cardio and mat control should lead to a decision or late submission.
Suggested bet: Ulanbekov via submission. A live +EV play might be to back him in round prop markets, especially if he can secure a takedown or two in the first couple of rounds.
