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Buchecha vs. Amir Aliakbari: 4 keys to victory in decisive heavyweight MMA fight at ONE 169

Fans are excited for the heavyweight MMA bout between top contenders Marcus “Buchecha” Almeida and Amir Aliakbari at ONE 169: Malykhin vs. Reug Reug.

This intriguing bout takes place this Friday, November 8th in US primetime, pitting the division's most dangerous submission artist against a world-class wrestler with dynamite in hand.

Each man has elite skills in certain areas of MMA, but it remains to be seen how they will translate them into this showdown.

Before “Buchecha” and Aliakbari face off at the Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, we tell you what keys they had to victory.

#1 Buchecha's versatile submission game

A legendary 17-time BJJ World Champion, Almeida is perhaps the most successful BJJ competitor to ever lace up the 4-ounce gloves and compete in MMA. And with three first-round submissions in four wins in his career, the Brazilian has proven that his grappling also works in all-around sports.

What makes “Buchecha’s” submission game so dangerous is its versatility.

Whether he's on his back looking for leg locks and armbars or looking for chokes in the top position, he's capable of finishing the fight from virtually any position.

This well-rounded submission attack will come in handy against a talented wrestler like Aliakbari, who will be difficult to defeat and suppress.

#2 Aliakbari's thunderous ground strikes

While Aliakbari might try to avoid the ground game at all costs, it is still likely that he will be involved in some sort of altercation with “Buchecha”. If that happens, the Iranian powerhouse should do what it does best: launch massive ground attacks.

The 36-year-old has proven to be a ruthless finisher from top position, often relying on his wrestling skills to maintain control, avoid submissions and put himself in the best position to finish the fight.

Against the submission-savvy Almeida, it would be wise to look for his signature crucifix position – a position he has used to score two highlight-reel finishes in ONE.

#3 Buchecha's evolving stand-up game

While “Buchecha’s” clearest path to victory is on the floor, he can’t afford to look past his punch. To that end, he should not be afraid to keep Aliakbari honest and test the waters on his feet.

In his last outing, the Brazilian dropped a hard-fought decision against upcoming world title challenger “Reug Reug” Oumar Kane. Despite the loss, Almeida showed adept kickboxing skills and a willingness to trade heavy leather, proving he is more than just a grappler.

Of course, he should be wary of Aliakbari's fearsome power, but if he intelligently engages in a striking battle, “Buchecha” can open up more opportunities to score a victory himself while keeping the Iranian guessing.

#4 Aliakbari's one-punch power

Aliakbari usually does his best work on the ground from the top position, but his breathtaking striking power remains a serious threat at all times.

With that in mind, he should act aggressively and force “Buchecha” to respect his strength from the opening bell, pushing the Brazilian into the background and making him more hesitant to get involved.

If the fight makes it to the second or third round – and if both athletes start to let down their defenses – Aliakbari's punching power could make the difference and lead to an epic knockout.

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