The upcoming clash between Curtis Blaydes and Rizvan Kuniev on Saturday, June 21, 2025, promises to be an exhilarating event in the heavyweight division. Blaydes is known for delivering thrilling performances, whether he wins or loses, while Kuniev is making his UFC debut after an impressive start to his career. Here’s a breakdown of this heavyweight bout and the prediction for Curtis Blaydes vs Rizvan Kuniev.
Our Curtis Blaydes vs Rizvan Kuniev Pick
– **Pick:** Curtis Blaydes by knockout
– **Confidence:** ★★★★☆
– **Bonus Bets For This Fight:** Use the BetMGM promo code ATSBONUS to receive up to $1,500 in bonus bets if your first bet doesn’t win.
Tale of the Tape
| | Curtis Blaydes | Rizvan Kuniev |
|———————|—————-|—————|
| **Age** | 34 | 33 |
| **Reach** | 80″ | 76″ |
| **Stance** | Orthodox | Orthodox |
| **Record** | 18‑5‑0 (1 NC) | 12‑2‑1 (1 NC) |
Curtis Blaydes vs Rizvan Kuniev Preview
Blaydes remains a top contender in the UFC heavyweight division, ranked fifth. His striking is powerful, with 13 career knockout wins, yet he can be vulnerable to early knockouts, as shown in his recent first-round loss to Tom Aspinall. Blaydes is capable of rebounding with his own potent strikes.
Kuniev is entering the UFC with a record of 12‑2‑1, boasting six knockouts and two submissions. He secured his UFC position with a TKO over Hugo Cunha in August 2024. Kuniev is aggressive, landing 5.82 significant strikes per minute with 78% accuracy. This fight will challenge his ability to perform under pressure in the top MMA promotion.
Betting Insights
– Moneyline odds from BetMGM have Blaydes as a -250 favorite and Kuniev at +200.
– Prop markets: This fight is -165 to end inside the distance, while it’s +120 to go the distance.
– A knockout is the most likely outcome at -125, with a decision at +120 and a submission win for either fighter at +700.
Curtis Blaydes vs Rizvan Kuniev Prediction
Blaydes’ durability and stamina are crucial. He aims to close distance early and deliver heavy blows. However, if he fails to secure a knockout, he risks losing momentum. Yet, I anticipate Blaydes will land a knockout shot, given Kuniev hasn’t faced an opponent of Blaydes’ caliber on such a significant stage.
While Kuniev has potential, he may experience a tough start. Expect Blaydes to win and consider betting on the fight ending by knockout, as the victor will likely achieve this with a decisive shot earning the stoppage.
- SCCG Management. The Gambling Industry’s Global Connector. Access Here.
- Source: SCCGManagement.com