UFC 321 – Aleksandar Rakic vs Azamat Murzakanov: Preview & Betting Tips

We’ve got a fascinating light heavyweight clash lined up for UFC 321, as Aleksandar Rakic faces the surging and unbeaten Azamat Murzakanov.

Rakic (14-5) was once viewed as a future title contender; he is tall, technical, with crisp striking and elite distance management. But after dropping three straight, including two knockout losses, questions linger about his durability and confidence.

Across from him is Murzakanov (15-0), an undefeated powerhouse who’s quietly become one of the most dangerous men in the division. The Russian southpaw thrives on chaos and explosive moments.

Tale of the Tape

Aleksandar Rakic – Odds 1.91 (Bet 365)

Record: 14-5

Age: 33

Height: 6ft4

Reach: 78”

Weight: Light-heavyweight 

Stance: Orthodox 

Azamat Murzakanov – Odds 1.91 (Bet 365)

Record: 15-0

Age: 36

Height: 5ft10

Reach: 71”

Weight: Light-heavyweight 

Stance: Southpaw 

Aleksandar Rakic vs Azamat Murzakanov: Analysis

There was a time when Aleksandar Rakic looked destined for UFC gold. At 6’4” with a 78” reach, his physical tools are tailor-made for the modern light heavyweight division. A sharp jab, heavy low kicks, and the ability to dictate distance made him one of the most technically complete fighters in the top 10.

Now though, he enters this bout against an undefeated fighter in poor form, and some fans are wondering whether his best days are long gone.Murzakanov marches forward, eats shots to land his own, and doesn’t allow opponents to breathe. That pressure style is exactly the kind of matchup that has historically troubled Rakic, especially when he’s been forced onto the back foot.

Murzakanov’s most dangerous weapon is his looping left hand, but he’s far from one-dimensional. He’s shown improved wrestling and the ability to land heavy body shots that sap an opponent’s gas tank early. Against a taller, rangier opponent like Rakic, those weapons could be key to closing the distance and forcing an inside brawl.

The blueprint is straightforward for Rakic. He must stay long, use the jab, and punish Murzakanov’s entries with calf kicks and straight rights. Clinch when necessary, and avoid the slugfest at all costs. He has to make this fight tactical.

For Murzakanov, the key is pressure; he must force Rakic onto the cage, make him uncomfortable, and test that chin early. The Russian doesn’t need volume as just one clean connection could end the night.

Rakic vs Murzakanov: Prediction & Betting Tips

Rakic may start well, keeping Murzakanov at bay with kicks and range control, but as the minutes tick by, the Russian’s pressure will start to tell. Once Murzakanov finds his range, expect him to unload that devastating left hand. Rakic’s composure could crumble under fire, leading to another devastating stoppage defeat.

I’m taking Azamat Murzakanov to win by KO/TKO at odds of 3.00 (Bet 365); despite his height and reach disadvantage, his power and explosiveness can bridge that gap and break Rakic down inside the pocket.