UFC Abu Dhabi: Petr Yan vs. Marcus McGhee – Prediction & Analysis
Petr Yan returns to the octagon riding the momentum of back-to-back wins, re-establishing himself among the bantamweight elite. Once UFC champion, Yan is known for his high fight IQ, elite striking accuracy, and ability to adapt mid-fight. His recent wins over Song Yadong and Deiveson Figueiredo demonstrated his capacity to neutralize both volume strikers and grapplers with calculated precision.
Marcus McGhee enters as one of the division’s fastest-rising names. With a record of 10–1, he’s coming off four consecutive UFC wins, including three finishes. McGhee fights at a blistering pace and brings real knockout power, landing over six significant strikes per minute. Though untested at the elite level, his recent performances have made it clear he’s no easy out.
Tale of the Tape
| Fighter | Petr Yan | Marcus McGhee |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 18–5 | 10–1 |
| Age | 31 | 34 |
| Height | 5′7″ | 5′8″ |
| Reach | 67″ | 70″ |
| Stance | Switch | Orthodox |
| UFC Finishes | 7 (3 KO, 4 Sub) | 8 (8 KO) |
| Strikes/Min | ~5.20 | ~6.30 |
| Takedown Defense | 84% | 70% |
Key Factors & Fight Breakdown
This fight pits McGhee’s forward pressure and knockout threat against Yan’s technical mastery and elite experience. McGhee is most dangerous early, with dynamic movement and power combinations that can catch opponents off guard. However, Yan is notoriously durable, with no losses by stoppage, and thrives in extended, high-IQ battles.
If McGhee can land something big early, he could change the course of the fight. But if Yan survives the opening exchanges, expect his timing, footwork, and layered combinations to wear McGhee down and take over the fight in rounds two and three. Yan’s takedown defense also limits McGhee’s ability to mix things up.
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UFC Abu Dhabi: Petr Yan vs. Marcus McGhee Prediction
McGhee is a legitimate prospect, but this is a steep leap in competition. Yan’s composure, cardio, and ability to break opponents over time should allow him to nullify McGhee’s pressure, avoid major damage, and secure rounds with technical superiority. Expect a competitive but clear decision win for Yan, who continues his climb back to title contention.
Petr Yan via Unanimous Decision
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