The UFC travels to the Middle East this weekend, and we’re covering all your betting needs for an Abu Dhabi fight night on ABC that’s stacked with top-ranked talent from top to bottom.
My expert analysis on the UFC odds provided by Bet365 (check our Bet365 Review) is complete. it’s time to dive right into the most noteworthy, best bets and predictions for the UFC Abu Dhabi this weekend.
Muslim Salikhov vs. Carlos Leal
UFC Abu Dhabi Welterweight Preliminary Bout
Saturday, July 26, 2025 – 09:05 PM EDT at Etihad Arena
Muslim Salikhov
Winning two consecutive fights at the age of 41 is impressive, but fellow aging fighters have somewhat assisted his matchmaking of late. He’s a longtime striker with some of the most lethal kicks in the game, but time isn’t on his side, as he’ll enter UFC Abu Dhabi with a 10-year gap to his opponent.
- Salikhov Pro Record: 21-5
- Salikhov KO/TKO Wins: 13
- Salikhov Submission Wins: 3
Carlos Leal
An absolute savage in the pocket who displayed his punching power throughout his pro career. This former LFA and PFL competitor has the experience, one-punch KO potential, and the pressure to cause nightmares for fighters like Salikhov, who enjoys striking at range.
- Leal Pro Record: 22-6
- Leal KO/TKO Wins: 11
- Leal Submission Wins: 2
Salikhov vs. Leal Breakdown: Striking Styles & Key Matchup Insights
Stylistically, I love how Leal cuts the cage and throws huge power shots on opponents backing up.
For Salikhov, his kicking game has been crucial. However, whenever the distance is closed, he tends to struggle in these brawling situations.
That’s where his technical abilities are limited.
And don’t get me wrong, Salikhov is a heavy hitter himself. But he’s considerably slower than he used to be. And while his win streak should be noted, so should the fact that these opponents weren’t exactly young either.
And don’t forget that primed Carlos Leal has never been knocked out while finishing his previous five pro-MMA fights with his fists!
UFC Abu Dhabi Odds & Expert Fight Predictions
The UFC pricing with our online sportsbooks places Leal as a favorite, but I don’t envision Salikhov surviving the expected heavy shots for 15 minutes.
In fact, I wouldn’t be shocked if we witness a first-round knockout for the Brazilian. That’s why Leal by KO/TKO for -149 is the play.
Davey Grant vs. Da’Mon Blackshear
UFC Abu Dhabi Bantamweight Preliminary Bout
Saturday, July 26, 2025 – 09:05 PM EDT at Etihad Arena
Davey Grant
You have to respect a 39-year-old for continuing to be competitive at the top level of bantamweight. He’s notably won 3 of his last 4 octagon appearances.
However, two of said wins came against now-retired fighters, Louis Smolka and Raphael Assuncao. And despite his most recent bouts being well-fought, these men aren’t comparable to his weekend opponent.
- Grant Pro Record: 14-7
- Grant KO/TKO Wins: 4
- Grant Submission Wins: 7
Da’Mon Blackshear
I understand the caution of Blackshear entering any fight as a huge betting favorite. Still, he’ll be an opponent with experience and an upward trajectory.
After Michael Johnson’s emphatic performance last week at UFC 318, I hate to use age as a measuring factor. However, considering Grant has had just four fights since 2022 (while Blackshear has had four in the last year alone), I feel like a passing of the torch moment is upon us.
- Blackshear Pro Record: 17-7-1
- Blackshear KO/TKO Wins: 2
- Blackshear Submission Wins: 11
Grant vs. Blackshear: Striking Styles & Key Matchup Insights
Blackshear, most known for his grappling and submission success, was once criticized for his striking offense. However, over the last year, he’s truly looked sharper and more technical in this area.
He’ll undoubtedly be the most athletic fighter, with a higher-tempo offense and speed.
And yes, the old dog in Davey is a crisp boxer who has won many fights through this aspect alone. However, Grant has reached his ceiling. Blackshear, meanwhile, is yet to peak.
The latter has looked incredible in his last three outings, including two submissions over respectable grapplers. He is a hard guy to finish, but here’s the kicker: he hasn’t fought a young and slick submission artist with Blackshear’s experience.
I wouldn’t be surprised to see this fight end by submission, but I’m also considering the potential for a knockout loss for Grant, as ring rust, age, and the momentum of a young opponent could finally take a toll on his chin.
UFC Abu Dhabi Odds & Expert Fight Predictions
The UFC odds make Blackshear a significant betting favorite. However, we’re not interested in the juice.
Instead, bet on Blackshear to win with the Under 2.5 Rounds priced at +150. The torch will be passed in a statement win for Da Monster.
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