Azamat Murzakanov vs Dustin Jacoby is scheduled for three rounds in the light heavyweight division as a featured undercard attraction on this weekend’s UFC Fight Night at the T-Mobile Center.
These two battlers are jockeying for position, and it should result in a great fight, but Jacoby is not getting an easy rebound bout against the undefeated Murzakanov. UFC odds have Jacoby as a -165 favorite while Murzakanov is a +140 underdog.
Here are our UFC betting picks and predictions for Murzakanov vs. Jacoby at UFC Fight Night in Kansas City.
Dustin Jacoby vs Azamat Murzakanov fight odds
Dustin Jacoby vs Azamat Murzakanov method of victory odds
| Method of Victory | Dustin Jacoby | Azamat Murzakanov |
|---|---|---|
| To win by KO/TKO | +225 | +300 |
| To win by Points | +180 | +500 |
| To win by Submission | +1,800 | +1,200 |
| Draw | +5,000 | +5,000 |
Odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook on April 13, 2023.
Dustin Jacoby vs Azamat Murzakanov picks
Click on each prediction to jump to the full analysis.
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Dustin Jacoby vs Azamat Murzakanov betting preview
Murzakanov and Jacoby are taking this critical fight knowing time isn’t on their side. Both fighters are in their mid-30s and need to make a move before their primes are behind them. Murzakanov is stepping up his competition, whereas Jacoby is trying to erase the sting of a controversial defeat.
Jacoby took a questionable loss against Khalil Roundtree, dropping him to 4-1 in his last five. He’s been fighting the better opposition for a longer period of time and has great kickboxing and considerable striking power. One thing Jacoby also has is great cardio, throwing plenty of strikes and staying fresh despite having a physically taxing style.
The dubious decision to Roundtree was his first loss in nine fights. During that stretch, he doled out beatings and started to separate from the pack to get the No. 13 ranking. In addition to his experience and fine recent form, he’s going to have a four-inch height advantage and a seven-inch reach advantage.
Murzakanov may be undefeated, but this is the first big test of his career. “The Professional” has put together a string of decent wins since joining the UFC — highlighted by his latest win over Devin Clark — but those were to be expected. Looking at Murzankanov, he seems undersized at 205 lbs.
What he doesn’t have in size, he makes up in skill. Murzankanov is going to have to contend with a fighter who can keep him outside, but his 60% striking accuracy and heavy hands make him dangerous on the inside. All three of his UFC fights have been knockouts, so if he gets inside Jacoby’s reach, it could be lights out for him.
Jacoby cannot abandon his physical gifts in this fight. He’s taller, longer, and possibly bigger, but Murzakanov’s sharper strikes could wear him down. Bettors seem to favor Jacoby’s body of work over his opponents, but the threat of a Murzakanov KO makes him a live dog.
Dustin Jacoby vs Azamat Murzakanov tale of the tape
| Dustin Jacoby | Azamat Murzakanov | |
|---|---|---|
| 35 | Age | 34 |
| 6-foot-4 | Height | 5-foot-10 |
| 205 lbs | Weight | 204 lbs |
| 78 inches | Reach | 71 inches |
| 18-6-1 (11 KO) | Record | 12-0 (9 KO) |
Dustin Jacoby vs Azamat Murzakanov UFC prediction and best bet
Fight prediction: Jacoby
I don’t think Murzakanov is ready for this level of opposition. It's hard to believe that at 35 with 12 fights in his career, he’s still taking the gimme and stepping-stool fights. His defense is sharp enough to avoid getting caught by a big shot, but he will need to take chances just to get in striking distance of Jacoby.
Even if they get in a dust up or two, Jacoby’s size and experience will force Murzakanov back into range, leaving him vulnerable to leg and body kicks. We’re backing Jacoby to hand Murzakanov his first loss.
Prediction: Jacoby moneyline (-165 at DraftKings)
Fight best bet: Pick
Once Jacoby proves too difficult for Murzakanov to manhandle on the inside, he’ll keep him at range and chip away at the clock. His long jab and leg kicks will stop Murzakanov from charging in, and a late desperate attempt will leave him open for big punishment.
This should be a win for Jacoby, and I think the best bet here is for him to win by decision.
Pick: Jacoby to win by decision (+180 at DraftKings)
