UFC is heading to Baku, Azerbaijan, for UFC on ABC 8 this Saturday, featuring a highly anticipated main event between former light heavyweight champion Jamahal Hill and Khalil Rountree Jr. The event, taking place at the Baku Crystal Hall, promises exciting matchups and significant implications for the light heavyweight division.
Hill vs. Rountree: A Clash of Styles
Jamahal Hill (12-3 MMA, 6-3 UFC), despite a recent two-fight losing streak, enters as a slight underdog against Khalil Rountree Jr. (13-6 MMA, 9-6 UFC). Hill, known for his striking prowess and longer reach, aims to capitalize on his boxing skills. Rountree, coming off a title-fight loss against Alex Pereira at UFC 307, seeks to prove his mettle and climb back into title contention. Analyst Din Thomas believes Hill's boxing and reach advantage give him the edge, predicting a knockout victory.
Thomas suggests that Rountree's impressive performance against Pereira might have been a one-off event, a moment where he rose to the occasion. While acknowledging Rountree's danger, Thomas doesn't believe he's reached an elite, championship-level status. He thinks Hill has the potential to exploit Rountree's weaknesses, especially if he can avoid the powerful leg kicks.
The Stakes are High
The winner of this main event will significantly boost their chances for a future title shot. Conversely, the loser will face a major setback, potentially becoming a gatekeeper in the division, needing to climb back into contention.
UFC Baku Undercard Highlights
The co-main event features a lightweight bout between Azerbaijan's own Rafael Fiziev and Ignacio Bahamondes. Fiziev looks to rebound after a loss to Justin Gaethje, while Bahamondes rides high after stopping Jalin Turner. Other notable fights include Curtis Blaydes vs. Rizvan Kuniev, Nazim Sadykhov vs. Nikolas Motta, and Myktybek Orolbai vs. Tofiq Musayev. The prelims are headlined by Seokhyeon Ko vs. Oban Elliott.
- Main Event: Jamahal Hill (+105) vs. Khalil Rountree Jr. (-125)
- Co-Main Event: Rafael Fiziev vs. Ignacio Bahamondes