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Marvin Vettori enters UFC 332 needing a statement victory. The experienced Italian middleweight will face Ismail Naurdiev on a crucial part of the card, with the betting market giving the edge to his younger opponent. Sherdog’s preview has Naurdiev listed as a -142 favorite, while Vettori is priced at +120.
The matchup represents an important moment for Vettori, who once appeared destined to remain near the top of the UFC middleweight division. The 33-year-old has built his reputation on relentless pressure, physical toughness and one of the more durable chins in the sport. However, recent performances have raised questions about whether he can rediscover the aggressive style that carried him to a title opportunity.
Marvin Vettori Faces a Critical UFC 332 Test
Vettori owns a professional record of 19-10-1 and reached the championship spotlight in 2021, when he challenged Israel Adesanya for the UFC middleweight title. Although he was unable to seriously trouble the champion, simply reaching that stage confirmed Vettori’s status as one of the division’s most reliable contenders.
He later suffered another significant setback against Robert Whittaker. That fight highlighted a recurring challenge in Vettori’s game: his forward pressure can be neutralized by opponents with superior timing, movement and technical variety. Rather than relying on his historically aggressive approach, Vettori has attempted to become a more polished and measured fighter.
That adjustment has produced mixed results. A lower output has made him less imposing, while his striking has not developed into the kind of powerful weapon that can compensate for reduced activity. At times, Vettori appears caught between attacking and waiting, creating long stretches of inactivity in fights he once would have dictated.
Can Naurdiev Exploit Vettori’s Hesitation?
Ismail Naurdiev brings a 25-8 record into the contest and has already experienced several different chapters in his UFC career. His first run with the promotion included an impressive upset of veteran Michel Prazeres, but it also featured a frustrating loss to Chance Rencountre and a one-sided defeat against Sean Brady.
Naurdiev left the UFC after that stretch in an effort to evolve his overall skill set. He eventually returned in 2024, surprising many observers, and has since competed at middleweight. While his approach can sometimes look unfocused, he generally throws a high volume of sharp strikes and is willing to test different ideas during a fight.
That unpredictability could create problems for Vettori. If the Italian fighter hesitates or struggles to establish his customary pressure, Naurdiev may have the freedom to work behind combinations, change angles and build momentum over three rounds. The favorite’s challenge will be turning activity into meaningful damage rather than simply accumulating punches.
UFC 332 Odds and Key Matchup Factors
- Ismail Naurdiev: -142 betting favorite
- Marvin Vettori: +120 underdog
- Vettori’s record: 19-10-1
- Naurdiev’s record: 25-8
- Division: Middleweight
The most important factor may be pace. Vettori is at his best when he forces opponents backward, stays in the pocket and makes the fight physically demanding. His durability allows him to absorb punishment while continuing to press forward. Naurdiev, meanwhile, must maintain discipline and avoid getting drawn into a battle where Vettori’s strength and toughness become decisive.
There is also a question of confidence. Vettori has the experience advantage in high-level UFC competition, but Naurdiev appears to be entering the bout with more momentum. The odds suggest a competitive fight, yet they also reflect uncertainty surrounding Vettori’s recent form and tactical identity.
Sherdog’s Prediction
Vettori would have been the obvious pick during the strongest period of his career. His pressure, durability and consistency once made him a difficult assignment for nearly every middleweight contender. At this stage, however, his recent uncertainty makes him harder to trust.
Sherdog’s selection is Ismail Naurdiev by decision. The prediction rests on Naurdiev’s expected striking volume and his ability to take advantage of Vettori’s hesitation. A close, competitive bout would not be surprising, but Naurdiev may do enough across three rounds to secure the judges’ verdict.
For Vettori, the stakes are substantial. A strong performance could revive his position in the middleweight picture, while another defeat may force difficult questions about his future at the highest level. UFC 332 offers him an opportunity to prove that the “Italian Dream” still has another run left.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Marvin Vettori fighting at UFC 332?
Marvin Vettori is scheduled to face Ismail Naurdiev in a middleweight bout at UFC 332.
What are the UFC 332 odds for Vettori vs. Naurdiev?
Ismail Naurdiev is listed as the -142 favorite, while Marvin Vettori is priced at +120.
What is Marvin Vettori’s professional record?
Vettori enters the fight with a professional record of 19-10-1.
What is Sherdog’s prediction for the fight?
Sherdog predicts that Ismail Naurdiev will defeat Marvin Vettori by decision.
