Kape Vs Almabayev: Expert Predictions And Best Bets For UFC Fight Night On March 1

The UFC is set to bring another electrifying fight night this Saturday at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, with the flyweight division taking center stage. Kape vs Almabayev is the highly anticipated matchup, as Manel Kape, ranked No. 8 in the UFC’s flyweight rankings, is gearing up to face off against the rising contender Asu Almabayev.

Kape is riding high after a dominant third-round TKO over Bruno Silva in December. Meanwhile, Almabayev, despite being unranked by ESPN, is an undefeated force in the UFC. A victory on Saturday would mark his fifth consecutive win in the UFC and extend his overall winning streak to an astonishing 18 fights.

To break down this compelling matchup, veteran MMA coach and ESPN analyst Din Thomas shares insights into the strategies each fighter should implement to come out on top. Additionally, ESPN betting expert Ian Parker gives his expert picks and best bets for this fight, along with two other matchups on the card.

How Kape and Almabayev Can Win

Manel Kape’s Path to Victory

Manel Kape is one of the most explosive and exciting fighters in the UFC’s flyweight division. His athleticism and creativity make him a dangerous opponent, but sometimes his tendency to stray from a structured game plan can hold him back. If he stays disciplined while still utilizing his natural ability, he has a significant edge.

Kape’s striking is a serious weapon. He has the speed, power, and accuracy to put opponents away, but he needs to maintain an aggressive pace and throw in more combinations. If he can stay active and pressure Almabayev, he has a great shot at earning a knockout.

Another key factor for Kape is his takedown defense. Almabayev thrives on grappling, and if Kape can keep the fight standing, he’ll have a clear advantage.

Asu Almabayev’s Strategy for an Upset

Almabayev is stepping up to face his toughest challenge yet. While his record is impressive, this fight will show whether he can truly compete with elite fighters.

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His best chance at victory lies in his wrestling. Almabayev doesn’t have the striking speed or accuracy to match Kape, so he must find a way to bring the fight to the mat.

To succeed, Almabayev must apply relentless pressure. If he allows Kape to dictate the fight’s pace, he will struggle to implement his game plan. However, if he can close the distance and land takedowns, he could slow Kape down and neutralize his striking.

Although Almabayev isn’t known for finishing fights, he could still win by controlling Kape on the ground for all five rounds. If he can execute that plan, he has a legitimate chance at securing the upset.

The X-Factor: Almabayev’s Power

While Almabayev is mainly a grappler, his striking can’t be ignored. If Kape underestimates his power, he could find himself in trouble. Kape has a habit of getting overconfident, and if Almabayev lands a big shot, it could change the fight’s momentum.

Can Almabayev keep Kape down for 25 minutes? If he can, he has a clear path to victory. But if not, expect Kape to capitalize and secure a finish.

Prediction: Kape by Stoppage

With superior striking and Almabayev’s lack of experience against high-level opponents, Kape is the favorite. If he fights smart and keeps the bout standing, he should be able to secure a late finish.

Source: UFC Fight Night: Expert picks, best bets for Kape-Almabayev

Betting Breakdown: Where to Place Your Money

Best Bet: Kape to Win (-210) & Over 2.5 Rounds

ESPN’s betting expert Ian Parker sees Kape as the rightful favorite. He believes Kape has championship-level potential, but he must avoid being taken down.

Parker recommends betting on Kape to win straight up. For better value, combining Kape’s victory with the fight going over 2.5 rounds could be a smart move. Almabayev is tough, so the finish may not come until the later rounds.

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Kape vs Almabayev: Expert Predictions and Best Bets for UFC Fight Night on March 1

Other Fights to Watch: Parker’s Top Picks

Lightweight Fight: Nasrat Haqparast vs. Esteban Ribovics

Pick: Ribovics to Win (-300) & Over 1.5 Rounds

Esteban Ribovics brings high pressure and knockout power, but he also has solid endurance, making him a dangerous opponent. Haqparast is a strong striker, but he struggles on the ground, which could be his downfall in this fight.

Parker recommends betting on Ribovics to win. However, pairing it with over 1.5 rounds improves the odds, as Haqparast is tough enough to survive early pressure.

Featherweight Fight: Hyder Amil vs. William Gomis

Pick: Amil to Win (+165)

Parker believes the odds on this fight are miscalculated. Amil should be favored over Gomis, yet he enters as the underdog.

Amil has an aggressive fighting style, a relentless pace, and powerful striking. Gomis, despite a split decision win over Joanderson Brito, isn’t as well-rounded as Amil. Parker sees a ton of value in betting on Amil as an underdog.

Final Thoughts: A Can’t-Miss UFC Event

Saturday’s UFC Fight Night is set to deliver plenty of fireworks. The main event between Manel Kape and Asu Almabayev is a crucial fight in the flyweight division, with Kape looking to cement his contender status and Almabayev aiming to prove he belongs with the elite.

For bettors, Kape is the safest pick, but intriguing value exists in other fights like Ribovics vs. Haqparast and Amil vs. Gomis.

With unpredictable matchups and high stakes, this is a must-watch event for fight fans and sports bettors alike. Don’t miss the action this Saturday night!