Hussein Salem vs Izzeddine Al Derbani — Gemini betting tip 27 September 2025.

This middleweight clash between Hussein Salem and Izzeddine Al Derbani is a textbook example of a striker versus grappler matchup, and the dead-even odds of 1.85 for both fighters perfectly illustrate how finely balanced this contest is. On one side, you have Hussein 'Al-Haj' Salem, a feared striker with legitimate one-punch knockout power. His game plan is straightforward but brutally effective: keep the fight standing, use his sharp boxing to control the distance, and wait for an opening to land a fight-altering blow. Salem has shown improvements in his takedown defense, but it remains the most significant question mark in his arsenal. If he can successfully stuff the takedown attempts from Al Derbani, his advantage on the feet is undeniable and could lead to a spectacular finish.

On the other side of the cage stands Izzeddine 'The Jordanian Lion' Al Derbani, a relentless and physically strong wrestler. Al Derbani is not a one-dimensional grappler; he possesses serviceable striking that he uses effectively to close the distance and set up his takedowns. His primary path to victory involves grinding Salem against the cage, tiring him out with clinch work, and ultimately dragging the fight to the canvas. Once on the mat, Al Derbani is in his world, capable of controlling position, landing damaging ground-and-pound, or hunting for a submission. His cardio is a major asset, allowing him to maintain a grueling pace for all three rounds, which could be a deciding factor if the fight extends into deep waters.

The outcome of this fight will hinge on one crucial dynamic: can Salem keep it on the feet? While Salem's power is the great equalizer, a grappler with a high fight IQ and a durable chin often has more ways to win. Al Derbani can win by decision through control time, by TKO via ground-and-pound, or by submission. Salem's path is narrower, likely requiring a knockout or a dominant striking performance where he avoids being taken down entirely. Given Al Derbani's proven durability and relentless pressure, it's more probable that he will eventually succeed in grounding Salem. While there's always the risk of getting caught by Salem's power on the way in, Al Derbani's style is built to neutralize exactly that kind of threat. I'm backing the grappler to implement his game plan and grind out a hard-fought victory.