Adam Williams presents his prediction for the UFC Fight Night 250 fight.
Shamil Gaziev
Gaziev is expected to push the pace with long-range striking and heavy pressure. He won't hesitate to absorb a few shots from Petersen in order to respond with quick, powerful punches to the head. Gaziev will look for openings to land knees and uppercuts, particularly when Petersen closes the distance for a takedown. Against the cage, Shamil is dangerous with elbows and will either attempt a takedown of his own or create space to keep striking. His stiff and fast jab will keep Petersen at bay, preventing him from easily setting up takedowns. Additionally, Gaziev might shoot for a double-leg takedown to control the fight on the ground.
Thomas Petersen
Petersen will stick to a mid-range distance, carefully evading Gaziev’s powerful attacks while testing him with occasional straight punches. Expect Petersen to work extensively in the clinch, targeting the legs with knees and following up with uppercuts. His key strategy will be waiting for an opportunity to grab Gaziev’s lead leg and execute a takedown, where he will look to apply relentless ground-and-pound. If the fight remains standing, Petersen will rely on short boxing combinations and quickly transition into clinch positions or force the fight to the mat.
Betting Odds
Gaziev is the clear favourite due to his size, superior striking, and defensive grappling, with bookmakers offering 1/5 odds on his victory.
Petersen, on the other hand, is a significant underdog at 53/20, though his wrestling-heavy approach could make this a closer fight than expected.
Shamil Gaziev vs Thomas Petersen Prediction
Gaziev will likely control the fight in the stand-up, constantly pressuring Petersen and forcing him into desperate takedown attempts. He will look for the knockout punch and work to trap Petersen against the cage, where Petersen's wrestling setups will become more predictable. However, Petersen should not be overlooked—his speed, adaptability, and ground control make him a real threat, especially if he can drag Gaziev into deep waters. While Gaziev is favoured for a KO finish, the betting value leans towards Petersen, whose grappling and tactical awareness could turn the tide.
