Almabayev vs Johnson Prediction 27 June 2026
👊 The main card of the UFC event in Baku features a compelling flyweight clash between two top contenders. Eighth-ranked Asu Almabaev steps into the Octagon to face off against American Charles Johnson, who currently rounds out the division’s top 15. Both fighters are in excellent form and view this matchup as a potential springboard into the title conversation. Almabaev rides an impressive winning streak and is eager to prove he deserves a shot at the belt in the near future. Johnson, known for his resilience and knack for upsetting favorites, brings a wealth of high-level experience to the cage. How will this showdown unfold? Check out our prediction below.
Assu Almabayev Player Overview
The 32-year-old Kazakhstani fighter Asu Almabaev, known as "Zulfiqar," is a formidable presence in the flyweight division. He launched his professional career back in 2013, and after a decade of successful performances, made his UFC debut. Since joining the American promotion, Asu has racked up six impressive victories in seven bouts. His only loss in the organization came against top contender Manel Kape, who is now on the cusp of a title shot. Almabaev is renowned for his exceptional wrestling and grappling skills, boasting ten submission wins on his record. In his most recent fight in Qatar, the Kazakh stunned the crowd by choking out the experienced Alex Perez with a guillotine.
Charles Johnson Player Overview
Veteran 34-year-old American Charles Johnson has long been regarded as one of the division’s most active and dangerous gatekeepers. He signed with the UFC in 2022, but his early days in the promotion proved challenging, as he suffered four losses in his first six bouts. Johnson, however, managed to turn things around, putting together an impressive four-fight winning streak. During this run, Charles handed a defeat to future champion Joshua Van, showcasing his high-level skill set. In 2026, the American has already stepped into the Octagon twice-first losing to Alex Perez by technical knockout, before bouncing back with a victory over Bruno Silva. With 19 wins to his name-more than half of them coming inside the distance-Johnson remains a tough test for any opponent.
Match Results: Charles Johnson
⭐ Editorial Prediction
Asu Almabaev to Win appears the most likely outcome here, given his overwhelming edge on the ground. The Kazakh fighter boasts a phenomenal wrestling pedigree, which should allow him to take the American down at will and maintain control throughout the bout. Johnson has consistently struggled against high-level, aggressive grapplers, and stopping Almabaev’s takedowns-especially with Asu’s motivation-will be a tall order. Almabaev holds the advantage in physical strength, stamina, and tactical versatility, effectively shutting down any hopes the American might have for successful counters. Our well-founded prediction: “Zulfikar” secures a convincing victory by unanimous decision, thanks to relentless grappling dominance and cage control.
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