Allen vs Shahbazyan Prediction
📢 In the co-main event of UFC Fight Night 278 at the Apex in Las Vegas, Brendan Allen and Edmen Shahbazyan clash for a coveted spot among the middleweight elite. For Allen, currently ranked fourth, this bout represents another crucial step toward title contention as he enters the Octagon riding a wave of momentum. Shahbazyan, after weathering a challenging stretch, has revitalized his career with an impressive string of victories-including a knockout of Andre Muniz in October 2025. Both fighters are known for their explosive, high-paced rounds, promising fans an action-packed and technically intriguing showdown. Check out our prediction for this matchup below.
Brendan Allen Player Overview
Brendan Allen is a 30-year-old jiu-jitsu specialist with a strong grappling background and a professional record of 26-7, including 14 submission victories. He earned his UFC contract through Dana White’s Contender Series and has since established himself in the promotion, racking up 18 bouts and a string of impressive wins. Allen rarely loses by accident-his defeats have mostly come against elite-level opponents. In 2025, Brendan showcased his consistency, defeating Marvin Vettori and forcing Reinier de Ridder to tap out from exhaustion. Stylistically, Allen is most comfortable on the ground, but in recent years he has sharpened his striking, becoming a more well-rounded fighter. One of his key assets is his composure and ability to maintain a high pace throughout the fight.
Match Results: Brendan Allen
Edmen Shahbazyan Player Overview
Edmen Shahbazyan is a 28-year-old fighter with a 16-5 record who made his UFC debut in 2018, quickly making a name for himself with a string of highlight-reel finishes. After a strong start, his career hit a rough patch with losses to Brunson, Hermansson, and Imavov, forcing him to regroup and search for consistency. Since February of last year, Shahbazyan has bounced back, racking up three wins in seven months and capping off 2025 with a spectacular knockout of Andre Muniz. He remains a serious threat on the feet, boasting heavy hands and an ability to end fights inside the distance. Right now, his motivation is at an all-time high-determined to prove that his slump is truly behind him.
Match Results: Edmen Shahbazyan
⭐ Editorial Prediction
We’re backing Brendan Allen to win. Allen has shown more consistency over the distance and holds a clear edge in grappling. He excels at neutralizing aggressive strikers with his takedowns and ground control-a strategy that should serve him well against Edmen. While Shahbazyan is dangerous and always a threat to land a knockout, Allen’s disciplined approach makes it easier for him to dictate the pace. In most scenarios, Brendan either grinds out a decision on the back of his wrestling or finds a submission after the midway point.