:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67682102/1281763178.jpg.0.jpg)
An international fight on international card pits Alec Oliveira of Brazil against an Uzbeki up-and-coming prospect, Shavkat Rakhmonov. Oliveira, taking the fight on short notice after Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos pulled out with a knee injury, will look to improve a two fight win streak. Rakhmonov should just be content getting action as he makes his UFC debut.
Oliveira is a more experienced at 22-8-1-(2), and is Rakhmonov’s biggest threat yet. Dangerous just about everywhere, Alex can make waves here if he can take out a legit title prospect. The reach and height difference could make an impact, but if Alex can keep it the fight going long enough he can upset him. He also came in a bit overweight for this bout, and will be forfeiting 30% of his purse to his opponent.
Rakhmonov is Uzbekistan’s biggest prospect perhaps ever in MMA. Making his UFC debut, he is a highlight machine going 12-0 elsewhere, finishing all of them with seven knockouts and five submissions. Oliveira could be his best win and could launch him in to stardom. A deadly strike game and more than competent on the ground and you have a dangerous recipe for a fighter.
Here are the betting splits at DraftKings Sportsbook for Alex Oliveira vs. Shavkat Rakhmonov at UFC 254 on October 24th.
Betting splits
Alex Oliveira: +100, (15% of action, 32% of bets)
Shavkat Rakhmonov: -124, (85% of action, 68% of bets)
DraftKings DFS Values
Alex Oliveira: $8,500
Shavkat Rakhmonov: $7,700
The public agrees with me and despite Oliveira being a favorite earlier in the week, a lot of money has come in for Rakhmonov and I think it’s warranted. $7,700 is more than fair and you should take him being a more explosive fighter with finishing capabilities.
Oliveira’s best hope is extending this fight and really testing the cardio limits of Shavkat. That does not really translate to DFS points, so avoid him.
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) (IL). Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ/WV/PA), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (NH/CO) or 1-800-BETS OFF (IA). 21+ (18+ NH). NJ/PA/WV/IN/NH/IA/CO/IL only. Eligibility restrictions apply. See draftkings.com/sportsbook for full terms and conditions.