Myktybek approaches this bout on a wave of success, having secured two consecutive finishes. In his last fight, he finished Azerbaijani Tofik Musaev with a kimura and knocked out Swede Jack Hermansson. Previously, in his first fight in the UFC, the athlete suffered a defeat to Polish Mateusz Rebecki, losing by split decision.
Meanwhile, Curtis won his last fight against Max Griffin, breaking a two-fight losing streak he experienced against Brendan Allen and Roman Kopylov.
Last year, Orolbay uulu moved up to welterweight (77 kg) from the lightweight division (70 kg). Curtis is also having his second fight in the new weight class, having dropped down from middleweight (84 kg).
Strengths of Myktybek Orolbay uulu
One of the most notable advantages of the Kyrgyz fighter is his knockout power. His strikes have repeatedly sent opponents to the canvas, as seen in his last fight with Hermansson. He also previously knocked down Brazilian Elves Brenner.
Another strong point of Orolbay uulu is his ability to fight aggressively. He actively pressures opponents, uses low kicks, jabs, and connects powerful right-hand strikes at the right moment.
Moreover, Myktybek's versatility allows him to operate effectively both standing and on the ground, offering opponents various fighting styles.
His high endurance is also worth mentioning. In the fight against Rebecki, he continued to fight actively despite sustaining injuries and heavy bleeding. Myktybek's coach, Tynchtykbek Omurzakov, emphasized his outstanding endurance in the early stages of training.
Additionally, age is an important factor. Orolbay uulu is only 28 years old and is on the rise in his career, while Curtis is already 38, which may give the Kyrgyz fighter an advantage in speed and endurance.
Potential difficulties for the Kyrgyz fighter
One factor that may complicate the fight for Myktybek is the stance difference. He fights in an orthodox stance, while Curtis is a southpaw. Fights against southpaws often create difficulties for orthodox fighters, as there are far fewer such opponents in training. Interestingly, Rebecki, against whom Orolbay uulu lost, also fights in a southpaw stance.
Furthermore, the Kyrgyz fighter often takes strikes while standing, preferring to evade rather than block attacks. Nevertheless, he is capable of absorbing heavy strikes, and knocking him out is not easy.
It is also worth noting the size difference. Orolbay uulu previously fought in lightweight, while Curtis has fought in the middleweight division for a long time. Both fighters have the same height of 178 cm, but Curtis has a reach of 193 cm, while the Kyrgyz fighter's reach is 188 cm. This may give the American an advantage in distance during exchanges. However, Myktybek has already achieved victories over opponents with a greater reach, as in the case with Hermansson (197 cm).
It is also noted that after the official weigh-in, Curtis may weigh significantly more than his opponent.
Possible fight scenario
Curtis is not the toughest opponent in Orolbay uulu's career. However, his weight may pose problems for the Kyrgyz fighter, especially if the fight goes to the ground.
Nevertheless, Myktybek's technical skills allow for hope of a successful grappling game — he may attempt to finish the fight with a submission or choke.
In striking, the advantage in speed and power of strikes will be with the Kyrgyz fighter, but straightforward attacks may be risky due to Curtis's southpaw stance and his ability to counter with his left hand.
Fight prediction
Considering age, endurance, and tactical flexibility, Orolbay uulu has a good chance of success. The fight will require high concentration from him.
The most likely outcome is a unanimous victory for Myktybek Orolbay uulu by decision. Bookmakers also favor the Kyrgyz fighter, offering odds of around 1.3 for his victory, while Curtis's victory stands at 3.7.
