We’re back with another betting prediction and pick for UFC 321 as we turn our attention to an exciting Middleweight (185 lbs) division bout. Russia’s top talent Ikram Aliskerov will take on veteran JunYong Park from South Korea in what promises to be a compelling scrap. Check out our UFC odds series for the Aliskerov vs. Park prediction and pick.
### Fighter Profiles
**Ikram Aliskerov (16-2)**
Aliskerov has gone 3-1 since entering the UFC in 2023. After securing consecutive wins following his Dana White’s Contender Series contract, he suffered his first promotional loss to former champion Robert Whittaker. Bouncing back with a strong performance against Andre Muniz, Aliskerov aims to cement himself once again as a top prospect in the division. Standing six feet tall with a 76-inch reach, he combines size and striking ability effectively.
**JunYong Park (19-6)**
Park boasts a 9-3 UFC record since 2019, including a recent loss to Andre Muniz in 2023. Despite this, he has achieved a solid 6-1 record over his last seven fights. Coming off two decision wins, Park looks to reaffirm his status as a dangerous veteran in the middleweight ranks. He stands 5-foot-10 with a 73-inch reach.
### UFC 321 Odds (DraftKings)
– Ikram Aliskerov: -230
– JunYong Park: +190
– Over 2.5 rounds: -105
– Under 2.5 rounds: -125
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### Why Ikram Aliskerov Will Win
– **Last Fight:** Win vs. Andre Muniz (TKO, punches, Round 1)
– **Last 5 Fights:** 4-1
– **Finishes:** 7 KO/TKO, 5 Submissions
Following his loss to Whittaker, Aliskerov took a clear step back and needs to continue building momentum before facing top-tier competition again. His convincing first-round TKO over Andre Muniz was a positive sign, showcasing his potential to become a champion someday.
Aliskerov is a fearsome finisher who can end fights quickly with clean, powerful shots. However, he keeps his hands fairly low in his stance, which caused problems against a speedy, blitzing fighter like Whittaker. Against Park, he’ll need to be more defensively aware while also protecting against submission attempts.
With his size advantage and an impressive 100% takedown defense rate, Aliskerov should be able to control where the fight takes place—preferably standing. While his ground defense is still a work in progress, Park may not be the opponent to exploit that weakness fully.
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### Why JunYong Park Will Win
– **Last Fight:** Win vs. Ismail Naurdiev (Unanimous Decision)
– **Last 5 Fights:** 4-1
– **Finishes:** 5 KO/TKO, 6 Submissions
Park comes into this bout following back-to-back decision victories, where he improved as the fight progressed and took control. Though he has struggled to finish fights recently, his well-rounded skill set and solid ground defense have been instrumental in his continued success.
In this matchup, Park may need to rely more on his striking to overcome Aliskerov. If he can become the first fighter to successfully take Aliskerov down, Park’s ability to take the back and deliver meaningful ground-and-pound could be pivotal.
Known for his submission prowess—holding six submission wins and a reputation for out-grappling better ground fighters—Park could threaten Aliskerov with crafty submission attempts. His consistent effort in both striking and level changes represents his best chance to win here.
It’s worth noting that Park boasts a striking defense rate of 53%, better than Aliskerov’s 41%, meaning Park must be selective and efficient with his offensive output.
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### Final UFC 321 Prediction & Pick: Ikram Aliskerov vs. JunYong Park
Ikram Aliskerov is aiming to re-enter the middleweight rankings after a disappointing loss to Robert Whittaker. Against the experienced JunYong Park, Aliskerov has advantages in size, strength, and youth. Nevertheless, Park is a savvy veteran who will have a smart, calculated game plan.
Assuming Aliskerov has made key improvements since his last defeat, he is expected to be the more dangerous striker. With significant power, he can capitalize if Park rushes in recklessly.
Unless Park manages to repeatedly take Aliskerov down and apply pressure on the ground, his path to victory looks limited. Given Park’s history of durable decision wins and Aliskerov’s finishing ability, we predict a hard-fought contest that goes the distance.
**Our final pick:** Ikram Aliskerov to win by decision.
Stay tuned for more UFC 321 analysis and predictions!
https://clutchpoints.com/betting/ikram-aliskerov-vs-junyong-park-prediction-odds-pick-for-ufc-321
