Henry Cejudo sees Islam Makhachev’s wrestling being too much for Charles Oliveira.
Makhachev (22-1 MMA, 11-1 UFC) faces Oliveira for the vacant lightweight title in the main event of UFC 280 on Oct. 22 in Abu Dhabi. Oliveira may not be holding the belt, but the Brazilian has won 11 in a row, including title fight finishes over Michael Chandler, Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje.
Although several fighters have had their moments against Oliveira (33-8 MMA, 21-8 UFC), they ultimately were overwhelmed and finished. But for Cejudo, it’s simple: Wrestling wins fights.
“If there’s anybody that could beat Charles Oliveira, his name is Islam Makhachev because he has that one solid style,” Cejudo said on his YouTube channel. “Same reason why I beat Demetrious Johnson: My wrestling overwhelmed whatever it is that he was bringing to the table, and wrestling can be your safety net. One solid base like wrestling could probably neutralize anything that any martial arts can bring to the table.”
Olympic gold medalist wrestler Cejudo dethroned Demetrious Johnson to capture the flyweight title in August 2018. It was a razor-close decision, but Cejudo’s three takedowns were able to sway the judges in his favor.
According to Tipico Sportsbook, the odds favor Makhachev, who’s a -180 betting favorite. Oliveira is a +140 underdog for their title fight at Etihad Arena.
For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC 280.
