Using the latest UFC 293 odds, as well as industry-leading tools, we’re set to make our Tai Tuivasa-Alexander Volkov pick and prediction.
For UFC 293’s co-main event, Tai Tuivasa takes on Alexander Volkov in the heavyweight division as a +198 underdog. Now on a two-fight losing streak, Tuivasa most recently lost to Sergei Pavlovich in December of last year. Conversely, Volkov has won two straight, most recently knocking out Alexander Romanov in March of this year.
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Tai Tuivasa-Alexander Volkov Pick and Prediction
Best UFC 293 Picks: Tai Tuivasa vs. Alexander Volkov Odds
Tai Tuivasa: Opened +175, Now +198 | Alexander Volkov: Opened -210, -250
Tuivasa has a 14-5 professional record featuring 13 knockouts. Among his losses, Tuivasa has been knocked out thrice and submitted once. Concerningly, he has been knocked out against Pavlovich and Ciryl Gane in his last two times out. Tuivasa is a knockout artist who lands 4.10 significant strikes per minute while absorbing 4.46 behind 45% striking defense. Much of this negative differential came against Gane, where he was outstruck 110-29. Tuivasa has also struggled against wrestlers, defending takedowns at just 52%.
Volkov also has a striking background, with a 36-10 professional record that includes 24 knockouts and three submissions. Among his losses, Volkov has been knocked out twice and submitted three times. However, almost all of his recent losses have come against the elite fighters within the division. In the UFC, Volkov lands 4.89 significant strikes per minute while absorbing 3.00 and adds 0.51 takedowns per bout while defending them at 73%. It should also be noted that Volkov has a five-inch reach and height advantage over Tuivasa.
Tuivasa’s striking defense raises major questions in a fight that projects to play out on the feet. Volkov has also been able to knock off other power punchers within the division like Jairzinho Rozenstruik. Even as a -250 favorite, Volkov deserves consideration. For those looking to shave off some of those odds, look to Volkov by knockout at +100.
Best UFC 293 Pick: Alexander Volkov -250, Volkov by KO/TKO +100
