Serghei Spivac has built his UFC career around wrestling and his victories over fighters like Marcin Tybura and Derrick Lewis showcased how dangerous he can be when he establishes top control. However, his recent losses have highlighted the difficulties he faces against athletic opponents who can defend takedowns and keep the fight standing.
Petrino enters the fight with considerable momentum. Since moving to heavyweight, the Brazilian has earned victories over Austen Lane, Thomas Petersen, and Steven Asplund while showing improvements in both his cardio and grappling.
Serghei Spivac
Last 3 Bouts
Win. Ante Delija – Unanimous Decision
Lose. Waldo Cortes-Acosta – Unanimous Decision
Lose. Jailton Almeida – TKO (Ground Strikes, Round 1)
Strengths
Elite heavyweight grappling
Strong submission arsenal
Effective clinch work
Proven experience against ranked opponents
Good control from top position
Durable and battle-tested veteran
Weaknesses
Can struggle against explosive athletes
Defensive striking remains a concern
Vulnerable to powerful punchers
Has suffered several knockout losses
Less effective when forced into striking battles
Keys to Victory
Close distance immediately
Force clinch exchanges against the fence
Mix takedowns with pressure
Avoid extended striking exchanges
Test Petrino’s heavyweight grappling early
Drag the fight into deeper waters
Vitor Petrino
Last 3 Bouts
Win. Steven Asplund – Unanimous Decision
Win. Thomas Petersen – TKO
Win. Austen Lane – Submission (Rear-Naked Choke)
Strengths
Heavy knockout power
Excellent athleticism
Fast hands for a heavyweight
Dangerous finishing ability
Improving submission game
Three-fight winning streak entering the bout
Weaknesses
Less experienced against elite heavyweight grapplers
Can be overly aggressive at times
Still adapting fully to heavyweight competition
Has shown defensive lapses against experienced veterans in the past
Keys to Victory
Keep the fight standing
Use speed and movement to avoid clinches
Punish Spivac during takedown attempts
Force Spivac into striking exchanges
Maintain a high output early
Make Spivac pay for every entry
Odds
Serghei Spivac +124
Vitor Petrino -148
