UFC Vegas 68 goes down this weekend at the UFC APEX in Las Vegas. In the main event, longtime heavyweight contender Derrick Lewis takes on Serghei Spivak.
Lewis is riding a two fight losing streak, with his most recent loss coming at the hands of Sergei Pavlovich by first round stoppage at UFC 277, whereas Spivak is on a two fight winning streak, with his most recent win coming against Augusto Sakai by second round TKO at UFC Vegas 59. The pair was originally scheduled to fight at UFC Vegas 65, but the fight was cancelled after ‘The Black Beast’ pulled out due to illness.
UFC Vegas 65 Analysis And Prediction
Lewis is one of the most incredible fighters on the UFC roster. His conditioning and skills are subpar, but his ability to knock people out is second to none. He’s incredibly strong and durable, with very good hands, which possess a ridiculous amount of power. Spivak is a well-rounded fighter. Grappling is his bread and butter but he’s getting better at striking as well. He is very strong in the clinch also.
Statistically, Spivak has the edge in almost every department. He lands close to four significant strikes per minute on average, whereas Lewis lands a little over two and a half. Spivak absorbs close to three significant strikes per minute on average, whereas Lewis absorbs a little over two and a half. Spivak averages more than four takedowns per 15 minutes and has a better takedown accuracy and submission average than his opponent. Lewis has improved his takedown defence quite a lot and will be tough to control on the mat, but Spivak’s relentless takedown attempts are going to be a major challenge for the American.
Spivak is the better fighter on paper, but Lewis’ power will be the equalizer as always, making this fight very even. However, the Moldovan should be able to do what he does best to earn a stoppage win on the night.
Prediction: Serghei Spivak by TKO
Betting Odds:
Derrick Lewis (+190)
Serghei Spivak (-225)
Who do you think will win the heavyweight main event between Derrick Lewis and Serghei Spivak at UFC Vegas 68?