Former Bellator welterweight champion Yaroslav Amosov is officially set to make his long-awaited UFC debut. Amosov faces Neil Magny at UFC Vegas 112 at the Apex tomorrow night. The event marks the final card under the promotion’s media rights deal with ESPN ahead of its move to Paramount.
Amosov’s long-awaited arrival comes during a massive shakeup in the welterweight division. Several young contenders are climbing the rankings, including Michael Morales, Carlos Prates, and Ian Machado Garry. Islam Makhachev is also the new welterweight champion after moving up from lightweight.
The Ukranian holds an impressive 28-1 professional record. His only loss came against Jason Jackson. That defeat ended his Bellator title reign, and he officially left the promotion last November.
After being out of action for all of 2024, Amosov returned to the cage at Cage Fury FC 140 in March. There, he secured a 1st round submission win over UFC alum Curtis Millender. Following the victory, ‘Dynamo’ expressed his desire to join the UFC.
“It’s a very big motivation for me [to join the UFC],” Amosov said during an interview with MMA Junkie in March. “I hope [UFC] give me a contract and I want to show I can take this belt.”
He added:
“I want to show who I am, I hope [Sean Shelby] gives me a chance.”
What Are the Odds for Neil Magny vs. Yaroslav Amosov
Although he has never fought in the UFC before, oddsmakers are favoring Yaroslav Amosov.
According to FanDuel Sportsbook, Amosov enters as the heavy -390 favorite. Magny, on the other hand, sits at +310. He enters the fight on a two-fight win streak, with one by submission and the other TKO, respectively. Because of that, the odds may surprise some fans.
For method of victory prop bets, oddsmakers favor Amosov to win by decision at +190. His next most likely path to victory is by submission, listed at +195.
According to oddsmakers, Magny’s best path to victory is by decision, listed at +650. Some bettors may believe the UFC veteran will pick up his third consecutive win by KO/TKO or submission. Those props are listed at +1100 and +1200, respectively.
UFC Commentator John Gooden Weighs In on Amosov’s Debut
UFC commentator John Gooden shared his thoughts on Amosov ahead of his octagon debut tomorrow night at UFC Vegas 112. He highlighted ‘Dynamo’s sambo background and well-rounded skill set.
Gooden praised Amosov for his accomplishments outside the UFC. He noted that he willingly took a break from fighting to serve his country, which is an ultimate sacrifice.
“[Amosov] isn’t just arriving in the UFC. He’s bringing one of the most ridiculous records in world MMA,” Gooden said in a recent video uploaded to UFC Fight Pass’ YouTube channel. “He won the Bellator welterweight title, defended it, and then in maybe the most inspiring moment of his career, he actually left the sport temporarily to fight in the Ukrainian territorial defense forces.”
He continued:
“Imagine that. Leaving your belt behind, passing up the opportunity to fight Michael ‘Venom’ Page, no less, in order to defend your country.”
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