Jan Blachowicz Vs. Bogdan Guskov – How Does It Play Out?

UFC 323 will feature a light heavyweight fight between Jan Blachowicz and Bogdan Guskov on December 6, as we look at how a fight could play out.

Blachowicz is desperate to return to winning ways after failing to secure a victory in his last three outings. His recent form includes a split draw against Magomed Ankalaev (UFC 282 in December 2022), a split decision loss to Alex Pereira (UFC 291 in July 2023). Most recently, he lost to Carlos Ulberg in March. Meanwhile, Guskov is on a four-fight win streak with all four victories coming by way stoppage. His last fight was a win in July, where he stopped Nikita Krylov in the opening round. Here is the rest of the card.

The Approach

Blachowicz will prioritize defensive counter-striking in the first round, maintaining distance with a stiff jab and utilizing his elite leg kick checks to inflict damage on Guskov’s lead leg and slow his movement. He will have to be patient, wait for Guskov to overcommit before unleashing his counter left hook. Blachowicz will aim to introduce his superior grappling pedigree. His aim is to use well-timed takedowns disguised behind punches to exploit Guskov’s less-tested cardio.

Guskov’s strategy is characterized by high-output designed to secure a finish. He will aim immediately to claim the center of the cage to cut off Blachowicz’s movement and force the fight into a striking bout. His main offensive weapons are the straight right hand and powerful combinations. He must show an improvement in his wrestling defence to create space to succeed in his striking.

UFC 323 Card

Merab Dvalishvili vs Petr Yan Bantamweight Title Bout

Alexandre Pantoja vs Joshua Van Flyweight Title Bout

Jan Błachowicz vs Bogdan Guskov Light Heavyweight Bout

Brandon Moreno vs Tatsuro Taira Flyweight Bout

Henry Cejudo vs Payton Talbott Bantamweight Bout