Prediction: Azamat Bekoev inside the distance
On paper, Belgaroui’s striking is levels above. He’s a world class kickboxer who actually knows how to use all his tools. He’s got the length, the composure, and the precision to make a guy like Bekoev look lost on the feet. Every shot from Belgaroui is clean and intentional sharp jabs, slick kicks, and combinations that flow naturally. If this fight stays standing for long stretches, Bekoev’s gonna be playing with fire, because Belgaroui can absolutely touch him up from range and make him pay for that forward only style.
But here’s the thing. Bekoev doesn’t care. He’s the definition of a pressure wrestler who’s willing to walk through hell to get what he wants. His striking is basically built around his power; he’s not setting traps or feinting. He’s just charging forward looking to land something big or force a clinch. No head movement, no defensive polish, just raw aggression and toughness. It’s reckless, but it works for him because his chin is solid and he’s relentless once he grabs hold of you. That’s where this fight changes completely.
Bekoev’s wrestling is his golden ticket here. It’s heavy, suffocating, and backed by cardio that doesn’t fade even when he’s grinding at a high pace. Once he gets his hands on Belgaroui, the difference in physicality becomes obvious.H e drags guys down, controls them, and breaks them with that nonstop pressure. Belgaroui has shown he’s improving his takedown defense, but he’s still a kickboxer at heart. Once he’s on his back, he’s in a world he’s not comfortable in.