UFC 278: Usman vs. Edwards 2 will feature a heavyweight clash between Marcin Tybura and Alexandr Romanov under the preliminary card.
The 36-year-old Polish fighter has a 9-6 record in UFC. Although Tybura is coming off a loss against Volkov from last year, he should not be underestimated. If he can manage to bounce back from the loss he might be able to get another chance to face top prospects.
On the other hand, Romanov is coming off an impressive submission win against Chase Sherman. The Moldovan fighter is 16-0 in his professional career and is a wizard in grappling. He is the type of fighter who can finish off his opponents with strangles and strikes.
Tale of the Tape
Marcin Tybura |
Alexandr Romanov |
|
6’3″ | HEIGHT | 6’2″ |
249 lbs | WEIGHT | 236 lbs |
78″ | REACH | 75″ |
22-7 | RECORD | 16-0 |
36 | AGE | 31 |
Marcin Tybura vs. Alexandr Romanov Fight Breakdown
Marcin Tybura is 22-7 in his pro MMA career with a 9-6 record in the UFC. Tybura’s streak was broken by Alexander Volkov last October by a unanimous decision.
Tybura is naturally a very well-rounded fighter. But what makes him stand out is his unique freestyle wrestling. His cardio might not be the best aspect of his game but for a heavyweight, he manages well.
It is safe to assume that Tybura will attempt several takedowns and his ability to scramble and defensive wrestling will be a huge point in this fight. His striking is fairly good enough to keep Romanov at bay and if he can manage to take his opponent to the mat that’ll be an easy way for the Polish to control the rest of the fight.
Alexandr Romanov is an elite grappler as well but also a better striker in this fight. If he can manage to find the holes in Tybura’s striking, it will be a deciding factor for this bout.
Romanov is the faster and more powerful fighter here. His athleticism will also play a big role to get Tybura in this bout. He’s got the advantage in the clinch, and if he can manage to control Tybura on the ground, and hunt for submission, he can pin Tybura down.
Who will leave the Cage Victorious?
Romanov is coming off an impressive win over Sherman, who’s a very similar fighter to his next opponent, Tybura. To win this fight, Romanov has to get to the top and land heavy ground and pounds on Tybura.
If he can control Tybura’s wrestling and successfully attempt chain wrestling, he will get the victory. Meanwhile, Tybura’s freestyle wrestling and ability to absorb powerful strikes will be the key aspects for him.
Prediction: Alexandr Romanov via stoppage