As UFC Houston approaches, one of the most intriguing heavyweight matchups on the card features Ante Delija taking on Serghei Spivac.
Both fighters bring different strengths, contrasting styles, and plenty of motivation heading into this fight.
With rankings and future opportunities on the line, this clash has all the ingredients to produce something special for fight fans.
Ante Delija: A Dangerous Heavyweight With Fight-Stopping Power
Delija enters the UFC with strong momentum from his run in the PFL. Known for his heavy punches, forward pressure, and ability to control the pace of a fight, Delija has built a reputation for finishing opponents early.
He is aggressive but calculated, often combining powerful boxing with effective grappling transitions.
His biggest strengths include:
- Explosive striking: Delija rarely needs many clean shots to change the course of a fight.
- Strong clinch work: He uses his size well to pin opponents and apply constant pressure.
- Momentum from recent performances: Multiple wins and finishes have boosted his confidence.
However, Delija has shown occasional defensive gaps, especially when he overcommits.
Facing a well-rounded grappler like Spivac will test his ability to maintain distance and manage takedown pressure.
Serghei Spivac: Technical Grappler With Fight IQ
Serghei Spivac has built his UFC identity around smart game planning and dominant grappling.
When Spivac controls the fight, he uses his judo background, trips, and top pressure to break opponents down.
His submission game, combined with an improving boxing approach, makes him one of the trickier fighters to prepare for in the heavyweight division.
Key strengths for Spivac include:
- Reliable takedowns: Whether through trips, body locks, or double-legs, he consistently finds ways to bring the fight to the mat.
- Top control and transitions: Once Spivac gains position, he maintains pressure and chips away with ground-and-pound.
- Composure: He rarely rushes. Spivac picks the right moments, which helps him avoid unnecessary danger.
But Spivac has struggled when opponents neutralize his grappling early. If he cannot impose his game, he sometimes absorbs too much damage while trying to close the distance.
Key Factors That Could Decide the Fight
1. Distance Control
Delija will try to keep the fight standing and use his boxing to force Spivac backward. If he can maintain range and avoid early takedowns, he can dictate the pace.
2. Grappling Exchanges
Spivac’s clearest path to victory lies in securing takedowns and controlling the fight on the ground. His ability to move from position to position could wear Delija down.
3. Cardio Under Pressure
Both heavyweights can start strong, but prolonged clinches or wrestling scrambles may impact the later rounds. Conditioning could play a significant role.
4. Timing of Power Shots
Delija’s knockout power is his biggest equalizer. If Spivac misreads timing on entries, he could eat a heavy counter.
Who Has the Edge?
This matchup comes down to whether Spivac can consistently put Delija on the mat before absorbing significant damage.
Delija’s striking is more polished and more dangerous, but Spivac has the better overall grappling foundation.
- If the fight stays standing for long stretches, Delija holds the advantage.
- If Spivac secures early takedowns, he can grind out rounds or find a late finish.
Prediction: Serghei Spivac Wins via Submission (Round 2)
Spivac’s ability to mix takedowns, maintain dominant positions, and stay composed gives him the slight edge.
Delija is dangerous and capable of landing the fight-ending punch, but Spivac’s grappling appears to be the safer and more consistent weapon in this matchup.
Expect Delija to have strong moments early, but once Spivac closes the distance and imposes his wrestling, the momentum should swing in his favor.