Prediction: Axamat Bekoev via Decision
Azamat Bekoev vs Ryan Loder is a high-level regional scrap between two guys who are both skilled, but bring very different approaches to the cage. Loder is the more traditionally styled wrestler, and he’s got enough technical know-how to keep things competitive—especially early. His jab is sharp, his left kick comes out quick, and he’s not afraid to press forward behind that one-two-left kick rhythm. But that straightforward approach, while effective against less explosive fighters, starts to fall apart when you’re dealing with someone like Bekoev, who brings serious power and pace into every exchange.
Loder’s standup is clean, but it’s predictable. His jab is more about speed than impact, and while the left kick can touch opponents up, it’s not a game-changer unless he strings it into something bigger. Against Bekoev, that simplicity becomes a problem. Bekoev thrives on timing, and when he sees repeatable patterns, he’s quick to make reads and punish. If Loder settles into his usual rhythm too early, Bekoev will time something big—either a counter right hand or a level change that leads to a punishing transition on the mat.
Skill for skill, this is a competitive fight. Loder’s wrestling base keeps him from being outclassed anywhere, and in terms of pure fundamentals, he’s probably a little cleaner in the clinch and on entries. But where Bekoev separates himself is with that physicality—the pop in his hands, the control in grappling exchanges, and the ability to keep a high work rate across three rounds. That combination of power and pace wears on guys. Even if Loder can survive the early damage, he’ll be dealing with the kind of pressure that makes defensive grappling harder and striking openings wider.