UFC 315 Preview: Brad Katona vs. Bekzat Almakhan – Can the Canadian Veteran Prevail at Home?
On Saturday, May 10, 2025, UFC 315 lands in Montreal, with a compelling bantamweight bout between Brad “Superman” Katona and Bekzat “The Turan Warrior” Almakhan set for the preliminary card. The Bell Centre will host this early showdown, featuring a hometown favorite in Katona taking on an ambitious newcomer from Kazakhstan. Let’s break down what to expect from this clash and who has the edge heading into fight night.
Katona vs. Almakhan: Tale of the Tape
Brad Katona (16–4) returns to the octagon looking to bounce back from a unanimous decision loss to Jean Matsumoto in October 2024. A well-rounded and technically sound athlete, Katona is the only fighter to have won The Ultimate Fighter twice—once in the featherweight division and again as a bantamweight. Fighting out of Straight Blast Gym Ireland, Katona brings a cerebral style backed by strong grappling fundamentals and a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His stamina and discipline make him a tough opponent for any rising talent.
Bekzat Almakhan (11–2) steps into his second UFC appearance after a challenging debut against top prospect Umar Nurmagomedov earlier this year. Despite the loss, Almakhan impressed with his tenacity and managed to score a knockdown. With nine of his eleven career wins coming via knockout, his lightning-fast karate-based striking and 68-inch reach make him a dangerous striker capable of ending fights quickly. He’ll be looking to make a bold statement by defeating an established UFC name.
Betting Odds and Matchup Insight
– Brad Katona: 16–4 record; durability, technically sound, and decision-heavy win history.
– Bekzat Almakhan: 11–2 record; 9 KO victories, aggressive, and carries a noticeable reach advantage.
According to current oddsmakers, Almakhan enters the bout as a slight favorite at -172, while Katona is priced as a +140 underdog. Bettors must weigh Katona’s world-class experience and strategic fighting style against Almakhan’s striking danger and physical advantages.
Fight Prediction: Who Takes It?
Expect an intriguing stylistic chess match. Katona’s blueprint for success hinges on grappling dominance and pace control. He’ll aim to weather Almakhan’s early pressure by closing the distance and working the fight to the mat.
Almakhan, on the other hand, must keep the fight upright and create space to unleash his striking arsenal. If he can fend off Katona’s takedown attempts and stay mobile, a well-timed knockout could be within reach.
Projected Fight Breakdown:
– Round 1: Almakhan presses forward aggressively, looking to land impactful shots and set the tone. Katona remains composed, intelligently waiting for a grappling opportunity.
– Round 2: Katona adjusts to the pressure, capitalizing on Almakhan’s forward movement with timely takedowns and ground control.
– Round 3: With the fight likely in the balance, Almakhan tries to rally behind his striking, but Katona’s experience and octagon savvy help him stifle any last-minute danger.
Final Prediction: Brad Katona wins via unanimous decision. His technical grappling, composure under pressure, and ability to execute a smart game plan should be enough to outclass the younger, less experienced Almakhan.
While the Kazakh striker has great potential, this matchup favors Katona’s tactical approach — especially with the hometown crowd behind him. Don’t count the Canadian out, especially as a value pick at underdog odds.
- SCCG Management. The Gambling Industry’s Global Connector. Access Here.
- Source: SCCGManagement.com
