Ruziboev vs Pulyaev Prediction 27 June 2026
📢 The UFC event in Baku promises a thrilling matchup as an experienced fighter from Uzbekistan goes head-to-head with a rising Russian prospect. Nursulton Ruziboev steps into the octagon determined to extend his winning streak and reinforce his reputation as a formidable all-rounder. Standing across from him is the ambitious Andrey Pulyaev, who desperately needs to bounce back from his recent defeat and make a statement. Who will come out on top in this clash? Check out our prediction below.
Nursulton Ruziboev Player Overview
Nursulton Ruziboev, who represents the Patriot and Renzo Gracie Philly gyms, boasts an impressive professional MMA record of 36-2-9. In 2024, he made a statement in the UFC by finishing Sedriques Dumas via first-round TKO. Although he stumbled in his next outing against the durable Joaquin Buckley, the Uzbek fighter quickly got back on track. In 2025, Nursulton put together two strong performances, first stopping Eric McConico and then outpointing Dustin Stoltzfus with a confident decision win. Ruziboev’s greatest strength lies in his phenomenal ground game-over half of his victories have come by way of submissions and chokes. Standing tall for his division, he also possesses fight-ending power and knows how to use his reach and size to dominate in the stand-up.
Andrey Pulyaev Player Overview
Russian middleweight Andrey Pulyaev trains under the legendary Alexander Shlemenko at the renowned Storm gym in Omsk. The young prospect earned his contract with the world’s premier MMA organization in August 2024 after an impressive victory on the Contender Series. Pulyaev’s UFC debut proved challenging, as he dropped a unanimous decision to the technically gifted Christian Leroy Duncan. However, he bounced back the following summer, redeeming himself in the eyes of fans with a spectacular second-round finish over Nick Klein. At the start of 2026, the Russian stumbled again, losing by judges’ decision to the physically imposing Cameroonian Atebe Abegue Gauthier. In the Octagon, Andrey prefers to dictate the pace from range, breaking down opponents with crisp punching combinations and heavy kicks.
Match Results: Andrey Pulyaev
⭐ Editor’s Prediction
Nursulton Ruziboev is tipped to come out on top in this matchup, thanks largely to his vast experience at the highest level. If Pulyaev opts for a cautious, long-range approach, the seasoned Uzbek fighter is more than capable of accepting that challenge and outstriking his opponent on the feet. Ruziboev’s biggest asset, however, is his ability to take the fight to the mat at any moment-a scenario where the Russian’s takedown defense appears vulnerable. On the canvas, Ruziboev holds a significant edge, enabling him to dominate through top control or quickly secure a submission. Ultimately, we believe Ruziboev’s tactical flexibility and superior grappling will be decisive, paving the way for either a convincing decision win or an early finish on the ground.
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