The moment fight fans have been waiting for is finally here: UFC Shanghai takes place this weekend in China, with a massive bantamweight main event between Umar Nurmagomedov and Song Yadong. The card also features Yan Xiaonan taking on Denise Gomes, along with several intriguing matchups featuring experienced veterans and some of the UFC’s most exciting prospects.
Main Card Predictions and Breakdown
Umar Nurmagomedov vs. Song Yadong — Bantamweight Main Event
Umar Nurmagomedov faces Song Yadong in a pivotal bantamweight matchup that could have major title implications. Nurmagomedov brings elite wrestling, grappling and technical striking, while Song is one of the division’s most dangerous knockout threats.
Song will need to keep the fight standing and make the most of his power, but Umar’s ability to dictate where the fight takes place could be the difference.
Prediction: Umar Nurmagomedov via decision. His wrestling and control should allow him to win the majority of the rounds. (Umar Nurmagomedov to win -675)
Check the latest UFC odds at Bovada.lv.
Yan Xiaonan vs. Denise Gomes — Women’s Strawweight
Yan Xiaonan returns to action against surging contender Denise Gomes in a matchup between two dangerous strikers. Xiaonan brings years of UFC experience and elite technical boxing, while Gomes enters the fight on a 4 fight winning streak.
Gomes will look to pressure Xiaonan and turn the fight into a high-paced striking battle, but Yan’s experience and ability to control distance could give her the advantage.
Prediction: Yan Xiaonan via decision. Her technical striking and experience should allow her to outpoint Gomes over three rounds. (Yan Xiaonan to win -150)
Aoriqileng vs. Kai Asakura — Bantamweight
Aoriqileng takes on former RIZIN champion Kai Asakura in an exciting bantamweight matchup. Aoriqileng is a dangerous and aggressive striker, while Asakura brings elite speed and knockout power.
Aoriqileng will need to deal with Asakura’s explosiveness and avoid getting caught during exchanges.
Prediction: Kai Asakura via KO. Asakura’s speed and power should eventually create an opening for a finish. (Kai Asakura to win -480)
Alex Perez vs. Sumudaerji — Flyweight
Alex Perez faces Sumudaerji in a rematch after their first meeting ended without a winner. Perez brings extensive UFC experience and strong wrestling, while Sumudaerji is one of the division’s most dangerous long-range strikers.
Perez will likely look to close the distance and take the fight to the ground, but Sumudaerji’s reach and striking could make that difficult.
Prediction: Su Mudaerji via decision. His range and striking should allow him to control the majority of the exchanges and get his hand raised. (Su Mudaerji to win -225)