UFC Fight Analysis: Azat Maksum vs Charles Johnson

WolfTicketsAI Predicts Azat Maksum to Win

Azat Maksum's Breakdown

Azat Maksum enters this fight as the favorite, and for good reason. With an impeccable record of 17 wins and zero losses, his UFC debut against Tyson Nam showcased his skills in a split decision victory. Maksum's striking was a key factor, consistently landing jabs and creating significant swelling on Nam's face, demonstrating precision and an ability to inflict cumulative damage over time. His strategy of constant jabs and occasional power shots, combined with a leg-kicking game, helped him control the range and pace. Despite a lack of knockdowns or submissions, his takedown attempts (11 attempted with 2 successful) and solid takedown defense (ratio of 1.0000) suggest a well-rounded skill set. Maksum's striking stats, including a striking defense percentage of 0.5950 and significant striking accuracy of 0.2434, indicate a fighter who's not only aggressive but also careful with his strikes.

Charles Johnson's Breakdown

Charles Johnson, with 13 wins and 6 losses, is coming off a unanimous decision loss to Rafael Estevam. Johnson's resilience is notable, particularly his ability to regain his vertical base effectively after takedowns, as seen in his fights against Estevam and Durden. This trait, stemming from his athletic background in track and field, enhances his defense against grappling-heavy opponents. His striking, while needing refinement, has moments of effectiveness, but he struggles against southpaws, as observed in his fight with Osbourne. Johnson's significant strike accuracy (0.5520) and striking defense percentage (0.4978) are decent, but his recent performance shows a need for improvement in striking exchanges. His recent fight history, with losses to Durden, Osbourne, and Mokaev, raises concerns about his ability to handle pressure from versatile fighters.

Previous Fight Breakdown

There is no previous fight between Azat Maksum and Charles Johnson.

Analysis and Key Points

Azat Maksum's debut fight against Tyson Nam revealed a fighter with a solid striking game and decent grappling. He effectively managed distance with jabs and leg kicks, showing a methodical approach to breaking down his opponent. His low takedown accuracy (0.1818) indicates room for improvement in wrestling, but his successful defense suggests he can handle grapplers.

Charles Johnson's recent fights, especially against Rafael Estevam, exhibit his tenacity and ability to withstand pressure. His ability to get back up from takedowns is impressive, but his striking seems less refined. Johnson's recent fight history indicates difficulty in dealing with opponents who can apply consistent pressure, both in striking and grappling.

Conclusion

Considering both fighters' strengths and weaknesses, Azat Maksum's precision striking and ability to control the fight's pace give him an edge over Charles Johnson. Maksum's methodical approach, combined with his solid takedown defense, positions him well against Johnson, who, while resilient, has shown vulnerabilities in his striking game and against persistent pressure. WolfTicketsAI's prediction of Azat Maksum winning is based on his undefeated record, striking accuracy, and his ability to dictate the fight's flow, capitalizing on Johnson's recent struggles in the octagon.