Joe Pyfer vs. Abdul Razak Alhassan Prediction: Can Pyfer Produce in the Co-Main Event at UFC Fight Night?
UFC Fight Night is this Saturday and Joe Pyfer squares off against Abdul Razak Alhassan. Can Pyfer produce in the co-main event? UFC expert Ben Rajavuori answers.
Ben Rajavuori
| 7 min
Joe Pyfer vs. Abdul Razak Alhassan Prediction: Can Pyfer Produce in the Co-Main Event at UFC Fight Night?
After a week off, the UFC returns to the Apex for another fight night. The co-main event of this card may be my favorite fight of the night. In a clash of middleweight knockout artists, Joe Pyfer will square off against Abdul Razak Alhassan. This co-main event matchup promises fireworks, as both men are known for brutal finishes. The rising prospect, Joe Pyfer, is a solid -400 favorite. There is no value in taking that, but is there value in another prop?
Joe Pyfer vs. Abdul Razak Alhassan Date, Time, and Where to Watch
- Date: October 7, 2023
- Game Time: 7:00 pm ET
- Where to Watch: ESPN+
Joe Pyfer vs. Abdul Razak Alhassan Prediction
Joe Pyfer, nicknamed "Bodybagz," is 27 years old and has quickly gained notoriety for his remarkable knockout power. With an impressive professional record of 11-2, Pyfer has stormed into the UFC with two consecutive first-round finishes, living up to the hype generated during his run on the Contender Series.
Pyfer originally debuted on the contender series in 2020, losing to UFC fighter Dustin Stoltzfus. After being brought back in 2022, Pyfer scored a second-round knockout in an electric fight and was immediately given a contract. Pyfer has slowly been building up his resume and now has two UFC knockouts in as many appearances in the organization.
Pyfer's striking power is undeniable. He employs crisp boxing skills and packs devastating power in both hands. His precise and technical boxing, coupled with swift reactions under fire, make him a fighter to watch out for in the middleweight division.
Pyfer's career stats speak volumes, with eight of his 11 wins coming by way of TKO/KO and two by submission. His finish rate showcases his knack for ending fights early. Still, there's a lingering concern about Pyfer's untested abilities in deeper waters. He has yet to face an opponent capable of pushing him beyond the first round. While he has some offensive wrestling skills, Pyfer predominantly relies on his boxing, making him somewhat one-dimensional. With most of his fights ending quickly, we haven't seen him tested in the later rounds. If this fight were to extend beyond the initial onslaughts, questions about his cardio would be answered.
In the opposing corner stands Abdul Razak Alhassan at 38 years old and a professional record of 12-5. Alhassan is a ferocious striker also known for his one-punch knockout power. He has earned a reputation as a dangerous man in the division, with all 12 of his wins coming via TKO/KO, and 11 of those within the first round. Alhassan's striking game revolves around his explosive power, particularly his right hand. He capitalizes on his opponent's mistakes and can turn the lights out with a single, well-placed punch.
While Alhassan is undoubtedly a striking threat, his weaknesses lie in his ground game and cardio. He lacks a solid wrestling base, making it difficult for him to defend takedowns effectively. Opponents who have exploited this have found success in taking him down. Another concern for Alhassan is his diminishing energy levels as fights progress. After the first round, his performance tends to decline, leading to losses by decision in four of his five defeats.
This fight has all the ingredients for a thrilling first-round stoppage, with both fighters having a history of early finishes. The over/under is set at 1.5 rounds with lots of juice on the under. In the end, I like Pyfer to turn the lights out on Alhassan. Alhassan is 38 years old and has not found extended periods of success in the UFC. His last time getting back-to-back wins was in 2018, and he may have reached his peak.
Pyfer is on his way up and is just entering his prime. This seems like a setup fight for Pyfer, as the matchmakers knew Alhassan would be willing to stand and trade with Pyfer, which will make for a great fight, but also result in Alhassan getting knocked out. The line for Pyfer by KO is -175 over at DraftKings, but just -140 at FanDuel. That's my favorite bet here.
Joe Pyfer vs. Abdul Razak Alhassan Prediction
Pick: Joe Pyfer by KO/TKO -140 is currently the best odds. Click here to see which sportsbook has the best odds
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