Popov vs Magomed Magomedov Prediction
👊 A landmark event for Russian MMA is set to take place in Elista with Fight Nights 135, where the main attraction will be a heavyweight clash between Oleg Popov and Magomed Magomedov. These fighters have already tested each other in a sambo bout, where Magomedov secured victory with a chokehold. For Popov, who has yet to secure a fight in the PFL, this bout at Fight Nights Global is an opportunity to get back on the winning track. Both athletes bring power and experience, promising an exciting showdown in the cage.
H2H Stats Fights and Previous Results
Oleg Popov Player Overview
The 34-year-old Oleg Popov is the 2025 PFL heavyweight champion and a member of Fedor Emelianenko's renowned team. His career spans performances in leading Russian and international promotions, including Fight Nights Global, M-1, Bellator, and ultimately, the PFL. In 2024, he reached the PFL season finale but fell to Denis Goltsov. However, the previous year, he clinched the Grand Prix by defeating Alexander Romanov via split decision in the decisive bout. Popov is a versatile fighter, capable of both knocking out opponents and forcing them to submit on the ground.
Match Results: Oleg Popov
Magomed Magomedov Player Overview
The 32-year-old Magomed Magomedov is a three-time world champion in sambo who transitioned to professional MMA in 2012. He kicked off his career with four consecutive victories, three of which were finishes, before taking a ten-year hiatus. He made a triumphant return in 2024 by knocking out Ruslan Belkharoiev in just 13 seconds. However, his subsequent bouts resulted in two setbacks: Nikolay Kovalenko knocked him out in the first round, and then Belkharoiev avenged his loss by winning on points. Magomedov boasts powerful striking and strong grappling skills, inherited from his sambo background, making him a formidable opponent for anyone in the cage.
Match Results: Magomed Magomedov
⭐ Editorial Prediction
We predict that the bout between Oleg Popov and Magomed Magomedov won't last long, as both fighters are finishers with knockout power. Considering their only sambo match ended early and their recent fights rarely went to the judges, a quick finish seems likely. Betting on total rounds under 1.5 is a logical choice.