Category: Fight Club

Articles by Cappers Picks related to boxing betting online, as well as UFC gambling tips, and MMA wagering opinion.

Categories
Fight Club

UFC 174 Handicapping | Betting Preview | Free UFC Picks

UFC 174 Preview and Picks

The UFC returns to beautiful Vancouver, British Columbia this Saturday for UFC 174 – a card that is highlighted by a Flyweight Championship bout between Demetrious Johnson and dangerous challenger Ali Bagautinov.

A fight with Welterweight Title shot implications between Rory MacDonald and Tyron Woodley is also on the card as well as former UFC Heavyweight champion Andre Arlovski’s return to the organization.

It promises to be a stellar night of fights – let’s break it down.

UFC 174: Johnson vs. Bagautinov
Date: June 14, 2014
Venue: Rogers Arena, Vancouver, British Columbia
Broadcast: Pay-Per-View, Fox Sports 1 and UFC Fight Pass
UFC Odds From Bovada

Main Card (on Pay-Per-View)

Demetrious Johnson (19-2-1): -565
Ali Bagautinov (13-2): +435

Demetrious Johnson will defend the Featherweight strap for the third time Saturday looking nearly impossible to stop. In his last three fights he has won by decision by armbar and by knockout! Translation – he can and will beat you anywhere the fight happens to go. Ali Bagautinov, the 2012 World Sambo Champion provides the challenge Saturday and himself brings with him a good set of all around skills.

Bagautinov will attempt to utilize his strong striking game and hope to throw some of his patented takedowns in there. But perhaps his best weapon ahead of this fight is his takedown defense – he has shown a tremendous ability to shrug his opponents’ takedowns and keep fights standing – exactly where he likes it.

Johnson’s quickness is already legendary in the UFC – you have to catch him in order to do any damage. While I don’t see Johnson being able to drag this fight to the mat, I do see Johnson being able to stay out of the danger zones with his insane footwork and speed. It looks like a lopsided win for Mighty Mouse as he peppers Baugautinov during a standup war en route to a relatively easy decision win.

Bring on John Dodson!

Pick: Demetrious Johnson -565

Rory MacDonald (16-2): +125
Tyron Woodley (13-2): -145

Rory MacDonald will attempt to climb the Welterweight ladder on Saturday when he takes on Tyron Woodley who has absolutely taken the UFC by storm. MacDonald, ranked #2 in the division is coming off a unanimous decision against Demian Maia while Tyron Woodley is fresh off an incredible knockout win against the terrific Carlos Condit – his third KO win in his last four fights overall.

MacDonald has struggled in his career against top level competition and he has been largely unflattering in his last couple of fights. On the other hand Woodley has been uber-impressive every time out – his only loss in the organization was controversial to say the least – against Jake Shields.

Woodley’s aggressiveness, his wrestling prowess and his power will serve him well against a fighter that seems to retreat into a conservative shell when pressed in fights. One mistake is all Woodley needs – I think MacDonald is good for one of those Saturday night.

Pick: Tyron Woodley -145

Ryan Bader (16-4): -143
Rafael “Feijao” Cavalcante (12-4, 1 NC): +123

Light Heavyweight do battle on Saturday night when former Strikeforce champion Rafael Cavalcante takes on Ryan Bader for a little credibility within the Light Heavyweight division. Bader brings a smothering wrestling game to the Octagon on the heels of a win while Cavalcante brings a 1-1 record in the UFC – his win came in TKO fashion last time out against Igor Pokrajak and his loss was at the hands of Thiago Silva in his UFC debut.
[ad-3573245]
This fight is a true contrast in styles with both fighters are desperate to climb the UFC ladder – neither can afford a loss. Look for the former two-time All-American wrestler Ryan Bader to impose his will in this fight – any sense of trouble for the American and he will certainly drag this fight to the mat where he has a distinct advantage. It may not be the most exciting win but Bader should be able to grind out a victory here.

Pick: Ryan Bader -143

Andrei Arlovski (21-10, 1 NC): +125
Brendan Schaub (10-3): -145

Andrei Arlovski will be welcomed back to the UFC by #13 ranked Heavyweight Brendan Schaub on Saturday night, nine years after he wore the UFC Heavyweight strap. While Arlovski has lost a step or two he will have a distinct striking advantage in this fight which should be enough. Both of these fighters have been knocked out in the recent past – neither has a particularly good chin.

Because of that, I have to go with the better striker – a motivated Arlovski is that guy!

Pick: Andrei Arlovski +125

Ovince Saint Preux (15-5): -145
Ryan Jimmo (19-3): +125

Light Heavyweights kick off the Pay-Per-View portion of UFC 174 when Ovince Saint Preux takes on Ryan Jimmo, who will attempt to win two straight fights for the first time in his UFC career. Saint Preux has been on fire – three straight wins but Jimmo possesses a very dangerous right hand as displayed in his seven second knockout win in his UFC debut.

Jimmo’s pattern recently has been win one and then lose one. No reason to think that the pattern changes against a very confident Saint Preux. Saint Preux makes a statement Saturday night and takes another step up the UFC ladder.

Pick: Ovince Saint Preux -145

Preliminary Card (on Fox Sports 1)

Daniel Sarafian (8-4): -360 vs. Kiichi Kunimoto (16-5-2, 1 NC): +295
Pick: Daniel Sarafian -360

Valerie Letourneau (5-3): -130 vs. Elizabeth Phillips (4-1): +100
Pick: Valerie Letourneau -130

Yves Jabouin (19-9): +155 vs. Mike Easton (13-4): -180
Pick: Yves Jabouin +155

Kajan Johnson (19-10-1): -170 vs. Tae Hyun Bang (16-8): +145
Pick: Tae Hyun Bang +145

Preliminary Card (on UFC Fight Pass)

Roland Delorme (9-2): -105 vs. Michinori Tanaka (9-0): -115
Pick: Michinori Tanaka -115

Josh Shockley (11-2): +115 vs. Jason Saggo (9-1): -135
Pick: Jason Saggo -135

CLICK HERE NOW to place a bet on UFC 173 At Bovada!

Categories
Fight Club

UFC 173 Handicapping | Betting Preview | Free UFC Picks

UFC 173 Preview and Picks

UFC 173 Preview and Picks For a Stacked Card in Vegas

The UFC has put together another typically stellar card for this weekend in Vegas. The Bantamweight Title will be on the line, Dan Henderson will be looking to cement his legacy with a win over the undefeated Daniel Cormier, a pair of Welterweight will be looking to keep their names in the Title picture and a pair of fights in the lower weight classes will get us primed for what should be three quality bouts to close out the evening.

UFC 173: Barao vs. Dillashaw
Date: May 24, 2014
Time: 10pm ET/7pm PT
Location: MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada
Broadcast: Pay-per-view, Fox Sports 1, UFC Fight Pass
UFC Odds From Bovada

Main Card

Renan Barao (32-1-0): -800
T.J. Dillashaw (9-2-0): +575

TJ Dillishaw steps in for injured Raphael Assuncao for the opportunity of his career – a title shot against Renan Barao – a fighter that hasn’t lost since April, 2005. You will search long and hard to find anyone giving Dillishaw a chance in this fight – me included.

Barao is an absolute nightmare to face – not only does he have a black belt in jiu-jitsu, his varied striking is some of the best in the organization. He can hit you and hurt you with both hands, both legs and both knees. He can and will do damage standing and IF you can get him to the ground (that’s a huge IF), you will be dealing with a fighter as comfortable looking for a submission as he is knocking you out.

Dillishaw has skills – don’t get me wrong. He is a former NCAA Division 1 wrestler that has never been taken down in his MMA career. His conditioning is top tier and his striking has improved immensely over the last couple of years. Dillishaw has to hope to be one of the few that can drag Barao down to the mat and control him there – I don’t see that happening.

TJ Dillishaw is a tough guy but Barao is on a completely different level at this point in time. Nobody has touched him in nearly 10 years! Dillishaw’s improved striking will help drag this fight out a little bit but in the end, standing and banging with Barao will prove to be his undoing. Nobody has hung with Renan Barao the last decade; I don’t expect Dillishaw to either!

Pick: Renan Barao -800

Daniel Cormier (14-0-0): -900
Dan Henderson (30-11-0): +650

The co-main event of the evening may be more intriguing than the main event – undefeated Daniel Cormier will try to knock off the legend Dan Henderson. Henderson will bring his patented right hand to the Octagon as well as a fading set of wrestling skills. Hendo looks to be in tough however against a fighter with a similar skillset but a younger, slightly more athletic makeup.

Cormier will have a huge size advantage as he makes his second appearance as a Light Heavyweight after fighting at Heavyweight for the bulk of his career. Cormier may also have the wrestling advantage against his 43 year old opponent.

While I think Henderson makes it all three rounds in this fight, I see him getting frustrated with the smothering style of Cormier. Expect Cormier to press Henderson against the fence and dirty box his way to a decision win. It certainly won’t be pretty but it should be another victory for a still-undefeated Cormier.
[ad-3573245]
Pick: Daniel Cormier -900

Jake Ellenberger (29-7-0): +190
Robbie Lawler (22-10-0): -225

A pair of knockout artists throw down in the third match of the pay-per-view card Saturday. Fighters looking to stay relevant in the Welterweight division square off – someone is likely to have their night end early in this one.

18 of Lawler’s 22 wins have come by knockout while 18 of Ellenberger’s 29 wins have come the same way – no reason to think differently about the outcome of this fight! Ellenberger didn’t look great in his last fight against Rory MacDonald while Lawler has won three of his last four fights – the only loss over that span coming to Johny Hendricks for the vacated Title – there is certainly no shame in that!

Lawler, assuming that he has gotten over his most recent loss is the better all around fighter in this one with a whole lot more to prove. Take him to knock Ellenberger out in the second round.

Pick: Robbie Lawler -225

Takeya Mizugaki (19-7-2): -175
Francisco Rivera (10-2-0): +150

Bantamweights take to the Octagon looking to make a little noise in the division when Takeya Mizugaki who is on a four fight win streak takes on Francisco Rivera whose six fight win streak came to a halt when he tested positive for a banned substance last time out after his KO win against Ronald Delorme.

While Rivera’s recent run has been impressive, he has gotten it done against lesser competition – the only time he has stepped up Rivera has been beaten down. Mizugaki on the other hand has been consistently facing top competition – two of his last four wins have come against top 15 guys.

Mizugaki’s experience over top tier guys will be the difference in this one – Rivera’s few steps up in competition haven’t gone so well – expect more of the same Saturday.

Pick: Takeya Mizugaki -175

James Krause (20-5-0): +145
Jamie Varner (21-9-1): -175

Lightweights kick off the pay-per-view card Saturday when James Krause takes on former WEC Lightweight champ Jamie Varner. Both fighters will be looking to climb up the ladder in the UFC hopefully securing a top 15 or even top 10 spot with a win. Both fighters are coming off losses and both need a strong rebound just to remain relevant in arguably the UFC’s toughest division.

Varner has lost three of his last four fights heading into Saturday night’s action while Krause’s only loss in the UFC came in controversial fashion – due to a possible low blow on a body kick against Bobby Green. Krause however brings with him an all-around skill set – he is as good on the ground as he is standing

Varner looks like the better fighter ahead of Saturday night’s showdown – he will have the experience edge against top competition and the reality that he may be fighting for his job in the organization. But with desperation comes carelessness – look tor Krause to jump on a few opportunities Varner gives up.

James Krauss and Jamie Varner are close on paper but the pressure in this fight is squarely on Jamie Varner. I think it will be too much as a care-free James Krauss posts the biggest win of his career.

Pick: James Krause +145

Preliminary Card

Michael Chiesa (10-1-0): -135 vs. Francisco Trinaldo (14-3-0): +115
Pick: Michael Chiesa -135

Tony Ferguson (14-3-0): -270 vs. Katsunori Kikuno (22-5-2): +230
Pick: Tony Ferguson -270

Chico Camus (14-4-0): +295 vs. Chris Holdsworth (5-0-0): -360
Pick: Chris Holdsworth -360

Mitch Clarke (10-2-0): +275 vs. Al Iaquinta (8-2-1): -335
Pick: Al Iaquinta -335

Fight Pass Card

Anthony Njokuani (16-7-0): -225 vs. Vinc Pichel (8-1-0): +190
Pick: Vinc Pichel +190

Aaron Phillips (5-0-0): +130 vs. Sam Sicilia (12-4-0): -150
Pick: Sam Sicilia -150

Jingliang Li (8-2-0): +130 vs. David Michaud (7-0-0): -150
Pick: +130

CLICK HERE NOW to place a bet on UFC 173 At Bovada!

Categories
Fight Club

UFC 172 Handicapping | Betting Preview | Free UFC Picks

UFC 172 Preview and Picks

Light Heavyweight Title On the Line – UFC 172 From Baltimore Saturday Night

The UFC has once again put together a stacked card for UFC 172 with the Light Heavyweight strap on the line. Jon Jones faces perhaps his stiffest test to date when he takes on Glover Teixeira in the Main Event while the rest of the card is littered with quality matchups to say the least.

Let’s take a look.

UFC 172: Jones vs. Teixeira
Date: April 26, 2014
Time: 10pm ET/7pm PT
Location: Baltimore Arena, Baltimore, Maryland
Broadcast: Pay-per-view, Fox Sports 1, UFC Fight Pass
UFC Odds From Bovada

Main Card: (PPV – 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT)

Jon Jones (19-1): -500
Glover Teixeira (22-2): +385

Jon Jones gets back at it Saturday night for the first time since a Title Fight for the ages in September against Alexander Gustafsson. His task this time – defeat Glover Teixeira who rides a 20 fight win streak over 9 1/2 years into the Baltimore Arena. Jones hopes to use his incredible athleticism and terrific all around game against one of the more powerful Light Heavyweights on the planet.

Jones brings an almost indefensible wing span into the Octagon – one that he uses to stay on the outside and deliver a variety of punishing strikes to his opponent. He is long, he is lean, he is unorthodox and most of all he is powerful – able to inflict a ton of damage on his feet. When called upon, Jones is well versed in takedowns and ground control – he is as good on the mat as he is on his feet.

Teixeira is powerful – his training with Chuck Liddell most recently has only added to the intrigue of this top tier Light Heavyweight. Tex has incredible power in both hands and is also a 2nd degree Black Belt in jiu jitsu – he like Jones can succeed anywhere this fight happens to go. Add in Glover’s stellar defense, his takedown game and his impressive cardio and Glover Teixeira may be the most well rounded fighter that Jones has ever faced.

Jones will have learned a lot from his epic fight with Alex Gustafsson and will definitely be wary of Teixeira’s danger zones. Simply put – Jones’s athleticism will bail him out in this one! Jones’s wing span should be able to keep Glover at bay and Jones’s terrific takedown defense should ensure that he keeps out of Tex’s wheelhouse. In what is sure to be a razor-close fight, I like the champion to do enough and to ride his gifts to a narrow decision.

Pick: Jon Jones -500

Phil Davis (12-1, 1NC): -205
Anthony Johnson (16-4): +175

Two of the better wrestlers in the UFC do battle when Anthony Johnson, who went on a six fight win streak after getting released from the UFC, takes on Phil Davis who is fresh off a decision win over Lyoto Machida.

Johnson is likely the stronger man in this fight and he probably has the better overall ground game but Phil Davis is no slouch in the wrestling department. Davis is likely to have the edge in the standup as he showed in his last fight against Machida.

Johnson will be a motivated guy coming back after getting released from the organization but he runs into an ever-improving Phil Davis in this one. I like Davis to wear Johnson down in this one en route to a submission win – likely in the 3rd round.

Pick: Phil Davis -205

Luke Rockhold (11-2): -800
Tim Boetsch (17-6): +575

Former Strikeforce champ Luke Rockhold will look to keep his ascent up the UFC ladder going Saturday when he takes on the very tough Tim Boetsch in Middleweight action. Rockhold is coming off an impressive dominant win over Costa Philippou whole Boetsch was last seen winning a split decision over CB Dollaway.

Boetsch will be the stronger man in this fight but that is about where the advantages stop. Rockhold will enter as the better wrestler, the better striker and the more athletic of the two fighters. Rockhold`s only loss in the last six years came at the hands to Vitor Belfort – no shame in that.

I`ll take the more well rounded fighter to prevail against the one-trick pony in this one.

Pick: Luke Rockhold -800

Jim Miller (23-4, 1NC): -205
Yancy Medeiros (10-1): +175
[ad-3573245]
Jim Miller steps into the Octagon for the 17th time Saturday to take on injury replacement Yancy Medeiros who steps in for Bobby Green – an unenviable task for even the most seasoned fighter. Miller is a stellar grappler – able to smother his opponents with tremendous wrestling and mat control. His standup isn’t so bad either!

Miller is a “B+” fighter stepping into the Octagon with a “C+” fighter in this one. Bobby Green would have been in tough against Miller – Yancy Medeiros doesn’t have much of a chance.

Pick: Jim Miller -205

Max Holloway (8-3): +135
Andre Fili (13-1): -155

Andre Fili will put an impressive nine fight win streak on the line against a very tough Max Holloway who is coming off a Knockout of the Night fight against Will Chope. This has Fight of the Night written all over it!

Holloway will look to utilize his height and reach in this fight – keeping his range and using a variety of kicks and punches may be his best chance here. Fili is also a dangerous striker that will have the definite edge this weekend in the wrestling department – Fili has good takedowns that can bail him out more often than not.

The problem for Max Holloway here is that he will not have the huge size advantage that he is used to – Fili is a beast. Fili`s size, his striking and his overwhelming grappling advantage will be the difference in this one. Fili isn`t widely known in the UFC – Saturday night could change that!

Pick: Andre Fili -155

Preliminary Card: (Fox Sports 1 – 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT)

Joseph Benavidez (19-4): -380
Tim Elliott (10-4-1): +315
Pick: Joseph Benavidez -380

Isaac Vallie-Flagg (14-4-1): +180
Takanori Gomi (34-9, 1NC): -210
Pick: Takanori Gomi -210

Jessamyn Duke (3-0, 1NC): +100
Bethe Correia (7-0): -120
Pick: Bethe Correia -120

Joe Ellenberger (14-1): -280
Vagner Rocha +240
Pick: Joe Ellenberger -280

Preliminary Card: (UFC Fight Pass – 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT)

Danny Castillo (18-6): -270
Charlie Brenneman (19-6): +230
Pick: Danny Castillo -270

Chris Beal (8-0): -140
Patrick Williams (7-3): +120
Pick: Patrick Williams +120

CLICK HERE NOW to place a bet on UFC 172 At Bovada!

Categories
Fight Club

UFC 171 Handicapping | Betting Preview | Free UFC Picks

UFC 171 Preview and Picks

Johny Hendricks and Robbie Lawler meet in the Main Event at UFC 171 looking to secure the vacated Welterweight Championship belt.

UFC 171: Hendricks vs. Lawler
Date: March 15, 2014
Time: 10pm ET/7pm PT
Location: American Airlines, Dallas, Texas
Broadcast: Pay-Per-View

MAIN CARD (Pay-per-view, 10 p.m. ET)

Johny Hendricks (15-2-0): -450
Robbie Lawler (22-9-0): +325

Hendricks enters the fight as the new breed in the Division while Lawler comes in as a re-invented fighter that has gone 3-0 since his return to the UFC after a 3-5 record fighting in Strikeforce.

Hendricks has the all-around game to give his opposition fits – his skills nearly proved too much for the best Welterweight the sport has ever seen – Georges St. Pierre. He is a former two time NCAA wrestling champion, his ground game and top control could be the best in the organization right now and his punching power, especially in his left hand seem to be on a completely different level. Hendricks is absolutely the real deal and ready to take what he thinks is rightfully his.

Lawler had been an average fighter until recent wins over Bobby Voelker, Josh Koschek and most recently Rory MacDonald. He is a one-dimensional guy – 18 of his 22 wins have come by KO or TKO. He has to hope that Hendricks chooses to stand and bang – if that happens, Lawler has a puncher’s chance.

But I can’t see it happening – Hendricks knows that dragging this fight to the mat will definitely be in his own interest. Lawler is totally outclassed on the ground. While Hendricks may opt to prove that he can hang with Lawler on his feet, this fight will ultimately end up on the ground whenever Hendricks decides its time.

Lawler steps right into a title fight because of one win – against Rory MacDonald while Hendricks has been busy putting away the best the Welterweight Division has to offer. Many people have Hendricks as the Champ already – me included. Saturday could mark the start of a long reign as Champ for Big Rig as he takes Lawler down often and grinds out a decision win.

Pick: Johny Hendricks -450

Carlos Condit (29-7-0): -220
Tyron Woodley (12-2-0): +175

In another Welterweight clash Tyron Woodley off an impressive first round KO victory over Josh Koschek takes on former interim Welterweight title holder Carlos Condit. Both men are 2-2 in their last four fights looking to climb the ladder toward a possible title shot down the line.

Carlos Condit has been at the top of the Welterweight rankings for a long time now – his two recent losses came to GSP and Johny Hendricks – not a whole lot of shame in that! Condit brings one of the most lethal and relentless striking games in the Welterweight Division into Saturday night’s clash but the one hole in his game could play right into the hands of Tyron Woodley.

Woodley should have an immense advantage in the wrestling department – he has shown the ability to drag his opponents to the mat in the past and will likely do so again. Condit has been taken down a staggering 25 times in his last three fights. Woodley, like everyone else will have a hard time against Condit’s striking – he absolutely needs to get this fight down to the ground.

Condit has been in the Octagon with the best the Welterweight Division has to offer and he has fared very well. Expect more of the same as Tyron Woodley struggles with Condit’s standup and he has a difficult time taking him down. Look for Condit to dictate the pace of this fight and to impose his standup will on Saturday.

Pick: Carlos Condit -220

Myles Jury (13-0-0): -155
Diego Sanchez (29-7-0): +125

One of the up-and-comers in the UFC Lightweight division takes on one of the most experienced fighters in the organization when the well rounded Myles Jury – 4-0 in the UFC takes on Diego Sanchez whose skills seem to be dwindling just a tad but is coming off one of the best fights of all time – against Gilbert Melendez in a fight that Sanchez lost by unanimous decision.
[ad-3573245]
Jury has been impressive so far but he hasn’t quite faced anyone the caliber of Sanchez yet in his career. The experience proves to be the difference Saturday as Sanchez gets back in the win column while handing Jury his first professional loss.

Pick: Diego Sanchez +125

Hector Lombard (33-4-1): -200
Jake Shields (29-6-1): +160

The powerful Hector Lombard makes his second Welterweight appearance Saturday when he takes on Jake Shields – the winner will most certainly be considered for the next Welterweight title shot. Lombard is coming off an extremely impressive KO victory against Nate Marquart while Shields has won two straight in upset fashion – against Demian Maia and Tyron Woodley.

Lombard will definitely have the stand-up advantage – his power could be amongst the best in the Welterweight division. But he goes up against one of the craftiest fighters in MMA today. Shields has a knack of dumbing down a fight an neutralizing the power and stand-up games of his opposition.

Lombard will need his power game to reign supreme in this fight but out-smarting Shields is a tall task. Shield has seen it all before and more often than not he is able to dictate what happens inside the Octagon. It may not be the most exciting fight on the card but if you are a Jake Shields fan the result will be to your liking. Expect a grinding decision win Saturday!

Pick: Jake Shields +160

Nikita Krylov (16-3-0): +300
Ovince St. Preux (14-5-0): -400

Former Heavyweight Krylov moves down to 205 lbs to replace the troubled Thiago Silva against Ovince St. Preux. Krylov is coming off an impressive KO victory over Walt Harris after a loss in his UFC debut. He will fight at Light Heavyweight for the first time Saturday. St. Preux has won three fights in a row ahead of this weekend – two inside the Octagon.

St. Preux’s athleticism will be the difference here. A former University of Tennessee football player, St. Preux will prove to be too much Saturday.

Pick: Ovince St. Preux -400

PRELIMINARY CARD (FOX Sports 1, 8 p.m. ET)

Kelvin Gastelum (7-0-0):-190 vs. Rick Story (16-7-0): +155
Pick: Kelvin Gastelum -190

Jessica Andrade (10-3-0): -300 vs. Raquel Pennington (4-3-0): +220
Pick: Jessica Andrade -300

Dennis Bermudez (12-3-0): -220 vs. Jimy Hettes (11-1-0): +175
Pick: Dennis Bermudez -220

Alex Garcia (11-1-0): -400 vs. Sean Spencer (11-2-0): +300
Pick: Alex Garcia -400

PRELIMINARY CARD (UFC Fight Pass, 6 p.m. ET)

Renee Forte (8-3-0): -135 vs. Frank Trevino (11-0-0): +105
Pick: Frank Trevino +105

Will Campuzano (13-5-0): +350 vs. Justin Scoggins (8-0-0): -550
Pick: Will Campuzano +350

Robert McDaniel (21-7-0): +105 vs. Sean Strickland (13-0-0)): -135
Pick: Robert McDaniel +105

Daniel Pineda (18-10-0): -230 vs. Robert Whiteford (10-2-0): +180
Pick: Daniel Pineda -230

CLICK HERE NOW to place a bet on UFC 171 At Bovada!

Categories
Fight Club

UFC 170 Handicapping | Betting Preview | Free UFC Picks

UFC 170 Preview and Picks

UFC 170: “Rousey vs. McMann”
Date: Sat., Feb. 22, 2014, at 10 p.m. ET on pay-per-view (PPV)
Location: Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas, Nevada
UFC 170 Main Event:
Ronda Rousey (8-0-0): -400
Sara McMann (7-0-0): +300

A battle of the undefeated headlines the UFC 170 card Saturday – former Olympians will meet for the Women’s Bantamweight Title. Rhonda Rousey is coming off yet another title defense against Meisha Tate – her eighth victory – all by arm bar. Seven of those wins have come in the first round! Sara McMann brings stellar wrestling chops to the Octagon Saturday – she will be a rare challenge for Rousey on the mat.

Both fighters will use their striking to set up what will inevitably turn into a ground battle. The fight will likely be won or lost there. So in the end this looks like a battle between Rousey’s judo and submission dominance versus McMann’s wrestling and ability to control her opponents from the top position.

The only thing missing from Rousey’s game was the absence of a real challenge – someone that would take her into deep water. Rousey got that last time out and can now be considered battle tested. Rousey’s judo game is better than McMann’s wrestling game which means that when this fight hits the ground it is likely Rousey that is on top – McMann definitely isn’t used to that.

Nobody has come close to defeating Rousey thus far – Tate gave her a battle but was clearly the second best fighter in the Octagon. Rousey has a lot to prove Saturday and with the giant chip on her shoulder growing by the minute, it is nearly impossible to see McMann posing much of a challenge. Watch for yet another arm-bar victory – likely in the first round again as Rousey cements herself as one of the most dominant champs in the UFC today.

Pick: Rhonda Rousey -400

UFC 170 Pay-Per-View Main Card (10 p.m. ET):

Daniel Cormier (13-0-0): -1200
Patrick Cummins (4-0-0): +750

Daniel Cormier was supposed to fight Rashad Evans but injury forced Evans to the sidelines. Enter Patrick Cummins who looks a lot like a sacrificial lamb in this case. Cormier has looked terrific in the UFC with wins over Frank Mir and Roy Nelson – he has the aggression and the defense that makes it tough to get in close.

On paper, this fight isn’t close. Sure Cummins is undefeated but he hasn’t faced anyone near the caliber of Cormier so far. It’s too bad that Evans is injured – this fight doesn’t offer a whole lot of intrigue.

Pick: Daniel Cormier -1200

Rory MacDonald (15-2-0): -300
Demian Maia (18-5-0): +220

Rory MacDonald will try to regain some of the momentum that he had a few years back and in turn throw his name back into title contention in the wide open Welterweight Division of the UFC. His challenge Saturday? A steadily improving Demian Maia – one of the best jiu-jitsu practitioners that the UFC has ever seen.

MacDonald has been somewhat disappointing lately – coming off a loss as heavy favorite to Robbie Lawlor. He will have a reach and size advantage as per usual in this fight – the trick is to use those advantages to score rather than to set up a takedown. MacDonald likely won’t want to go to the mat too early with Mr. Maia.

Demian Maia has been good since dropping to Welterweight – a split decision loss to Jake Shields last time out stopped a three fight win streak in the division. His last three losses have come against Shields, Chris Weidman and Anderson Silva – no shame in that.
[ad-3573245]
MacDonald is definitely not on the level of the fighters that have beaten Maia in the past – it’s a tad hard to believe that MacDonald is -300. Maia, although not elite is a very tough B+ fighter – one of the best grapplers in the Welterweight Division. MacDonald is dangerous but has a few more lessons to learn – Maia provides one Saturday.

Pick: Demian Maia +220

Mike Pyle (25-9-1): -210
T.J. Waldburger (16-8-0): +165

Two fighters coming off underwhelming performances in which they were knocked out early will try to get back in the win column Saturday when Mike Pyle takes on TJ Waldburger. Both men bring a good striking game to the Octagon Saturday but Pyle has by far the better rounded game.

Experience and a varied attack will likely be the difference in this fight – Waldburger will have a tough time defending all that Pyle brings to the Octagon. Pyle gets it done by TKO.

Pick: Mike Pyle -210

Stephen Thompson (8-1-0): -135
Robert Whittaker (11-3-0): +105

Strikers with interesting styles kick off the pay-per-view portion of UFC 170 when Robert Whitaker, who lost a split decision in controversial fashion to Court McGee last time out, takes on Stephen Thompson who beat Chris Clements in his last fight.

The striking looks about even in this fight – grappling and ground chops could be the difference here. Whittaker has the slight edge in that department – watch for him to take advantage of that advantage and wear Thompson down en route to a decision victory.

Pick: Robert Whittaker +105

UFC 170 FOX Sports 1 Prelims (8 p.m. ET):

Alexis Davis (15-5-0): -165
Jessica Eye (11-1-0): +135
Pick: Alexis Davis -165

Raphael Assuncao (21-4-0): -220
Pedro Munhoz (10-0-0): +175
Pick: Raphael Assuncao -220

Aljamaine Sterling (8-0-0): -240
Cody Gibson (11-3-0): +190
Pick: Cody Gibson +190

Zach Makovsky (17-4-0): -170
Josh Sampo (11-2-0): +140
Pick: Josh Sampo +140

UFC 170 Fight Pass Prelims (7 p.m. ET):

Erik Koch (13-3-0): -400
Rafaello Oliveira (17-7-0): +300
Pick: Erik Koch -400

Ernest Chavez (6-0-0): +220
Yosdenis Cedeno (9-2-0): -300
Pick: Yosdenis Cedeno -300

CLICK HERE NOW to place a bet on UFC 170 At Bovada!

Categories
Fight Club

UFC 169 Handicapping | Betting Preview | Free UFC Picks

UFC 169 Preview and Picks

With Dominick Cruz back on the sidelines Renan Barao and Urijah Faber will fight for the second time to determine the top dog in the Bantamweight Division.

UFC 169: Barao vs. Faber
Date: February 1, 2014
Time: 10pm ET/7pm PT
Location: Prudential Center, Newark, New Jersey
Broadcast: Pay-per-view
Main Card (PPV)
Renan Barao (31-1-0): -285
Urijah Faber (30-6-0): +225
UFC Odds From Bovada

This is a rematch of a very close fight in which Barao came out on top. Faber would love nothing more than to win and get a shot at Cruz once he returns – Barao will be motivated to defend the interim title for the third time since Cruz’s injury.

Renan Barao may be one of the most well-rounded fighters in the game today. A strong Muay Thai background making him one of the most feared strikers in the games and he also has a Black Belt in Jiu-jitsu that has helped him to 14 submission victories in his 32 fight career.

Faber is another guy that brings a very well-rounded game to the Octagon. He may be the more athletic of the two fighters and he brings a very strong wrestling base and technical game each and every time out. The lone possible hole in his game is striking but that has certainly improved over the last could of years. Faber, like Barao can beat you anywhere a fight happens to go.

The first fight was very close – the winner of this bout will be the one that has improved more since the first encounter. That honor goes to Urijah Faber whose striking has dramatically improved since the last fight. A true student of the fight game, look for Faber to go to school on what Barao hopes to do and find a fight plan to secure victory.

Pick: Urijah Faber +225

Jose Aldo (23-1-0): -625
Ricardo Lamas (13-2-0): +450

The terrific Jose Aldo steps back onto the Octagon on Saturday to defend his 145 pound title, looking for his 17th straight win overall. His opposition Saturday – the #2 ranked Featherweight in the world – Ricardo Lamas who enters on a four fight win streak.

Jose Aldo is one of the more dominant champions in the UFC today – nobody has really come close to snatching his title. His Muay Thai is incredible, his leg kicks are lethal and his “air of invincibility” is a real thing.

Lamas has the wrestling and the striking to be a #1 contender but there is no way he defeats Aldo. If Lamas could get close to Aldo, he may have a puncher’s chance – I just don’t see him being able to close the gap enough.

Pick: Jose Aldo -625

Frank Mir (16-8-0): +240
Alistair Overeem (36-13-0): -300

In what is sure to be a “loser gets cut match” Heavyweights Frank Mir and Alistair Overeem will be fighting for their future spot in the organization Saturday. Both men have been disappointing to say the least their last couple of outings – both have a ton to prove Saturday.

This is your classic “grappler vs. striker” matchup – Mir being the grappler and Overeem being the striker. Mir is one of the best Heavyweight submission fighters of all time while Overeem is one of the best pure strikers ever in MMA.

Frank Mir is going to have to bang with Overeem in this one – Alistair’s takedown defense and ability to work in the clinch will make it tough for Mir to get this fight to the mat. The winner here will be able to drag their opponent into their type of fight while taking their opponent out of their plan. I see Overeem being able to keep this fight standing and ending this fight early via first round TKO.

Pick: Alistair Overeem -300

John Lineker (23-6-0): +100
Ali Bagautinov (12-2-0): -130

Flyweights take to the Octagon when John Lineker who won all three of his fights last year (but missed weight in two) takes on the very dangerous Ali Bagautinov who has not only been perfect so far in the UFC but has also won 10 straight fights. The winner of this fight will likely get a title shot, assuming that Lineker can control his eating!

Both men have knockouts on their mind – Lineker has won three straight by KO while Bagautinov can also do some damage with his hands. The difference between the two is that Lineker will be the aggressor and Bagautinov will utilize a strong counter punching game.
[ad-3573245]
Bagautinov has moved to New Mexico to train with the Jackson camp – his preparation ahead of this fight will be like no other he’s had before. Although Lineker has been destroying his competition, Bagautinov’s game is the perfect answer to Lineker’s style. I see a unanimous decision win here for the Russian as he climbs up the 125 pound ladder,

Pick: Ali Bagautinov -135

Abel Trujillo (11-5-0): +125
Jamie Varner (21-8-1): -155

Lightweights Abel Trujillo and Jamie Varner will try to make a little noise in the stacked Lightweight division Saturday. Varner is a former WEC Lightweight Champion who will be looking to stabilize a career that has been up and down the last couple of years while Trujillo will be looking to prove why he is one of the most feared prospects in the game right now.

Varner’s inconsistency has kept him out of title contention – I think that creeps up on him again. Despite a lack of wrestling defense, Trujillo should be able to utilize his terrific striking to keep Varner at bay. Trujillo’s recent work with Rashad Evans and Anthony Johnson should have given him some grappling chops to boot.

Pick: Abel Trujillo +125

Preliminary Card (FS1)

John Makdessi (12-2-0): -165 vs. Alan Patrick (11-0-0): +135
Pick: John Makdessi -165

Chris Cariaso (15-5-0): -150 vs. Danny Martinez (16-4-0): +120
Pick: Chris Cariaso -150

Nick Catone (9-4-0): +160 vs. Tom Watson (16-6-0): -200
Pick: Tom Watson -200

Al Iaquinta (7-2-1): -260 vs. Kevin Lee (6-0-0): +200
Pick: Al Iaquinta -260

Preliminary Card (UFC Fight Pass)

Clint Hester (9-3-0): -200 vs. Andy Enz (7-0-0): +160
Pick: Clint Hester +160

Tony Martin (7-0-0): +220 vs. Rashid Magomedov (15-1-0): -280
Pick: Rashid Magomedov -280

Neil Magny (8-3-0): +145 vs. Gasan Umalatov (14-2-1): -175
Pick: Gasan Umalatov -175

CLICK HERE NOW to place a bet on UFC 169 At Bovada!

Categories
Fight Club

UFC 168 Handicapping | Betting Preview | Free UFC Picks

UFC 168 Preview and Picks

UFC Closes Out 2013 With 2 Title Bouts

UFC 168 comes our way from Las Vegas this Saturday and what a card it is to bring 2013 to an end. Two title fights and two rematches highlight at card full of potential fireworks.

UFC 168: Weidman vs. Silva 2
Date: December 28, 2013
Time: 10pm ET/7pm PT
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
Broadcast: Pay-per-view, Fox Sports 1
Main Card (PPV)
Chris Weidman (10-0-0): +135
Anderson Silva (33-5-0): -165
UFC Odds From Bovada

This has all the makings of Fight of the Year with Anderson Silva trying to avenge his only loss in his last 17 tries inside the Octagon. Both fighters are extremely well rounded, both have an abundance of confidence and both will be out to prove that they are without a doubt the top Middleweight on the planet.

For those of you that thought the first fight between the tow was a fluke. Consider that Weidman is a former Division 1 All-American wrestler, Ring of Combat Middleweight champ, he won the U.S. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu champion as a purple belt and he has enviable striking chops to go along with his grappling – he is used to competing at the highest level and dominating.

What more need to be said about Anderson Silva? He is the best striker MMA has ever seen. His mix of speed, power, footwork, accuracy, technique, and creativity is legendary as is his ability to hurt you with both legs and both hands anytime anywhere. What is often lost is Anderson’s ability to get it done on the mat as well – remember what he did to Chael Sonnen? What may make Silva more dangerous this time around is the realization that he may have finally learned his lesson about clowning around – he shouldn’t take anything for granted against Weidman like has had done in so many fights before.

The one hole in Anderson’s Silva’s game may cost him in this fight – I can’t see him getting caught again in a standup war. But I can see Weidman hitting a few takedowns and controlling Silva from the top. Anderson has traditionally had all sorts of troubles with wrestlers and Saturday night will likely be no different.

Pick: Chris Weidman +135

Ronda Rousey (7-0-0): -900
Miesha Tate (13-4-0): +600

Ronda Rousey and Miesha Tate get to finally put all the talk behind them and fight. This one, on paper is one of the easier fights to call in some time. Tate got this fight when Cat Zigano who beat Tate was injured, opening the door. Rousey has already faced Tate and beat her by armbar in the first round – just like every one of Rousey’s victims to date.

Rousey is too strong, too athletic and her 4th level black belt judo is just too much to handle. Meisha Tate may hang around but she will be beaten the whole way along. I like Rousey by armbar (what else?) in the second round.

Pick: Ronda Rousey -900 – It’s not a big payday but it is a payday nonetheless

Josh Barnett (33-6-0): -200
Travis Browne (15-1-1): +160

An up and coming star in the Heavyweight division Travis Browne will try to take the next step in his career Saturday when he takes on the experienced and very dangerous Josh Barnett – the winner will likely get a title shot in the near future. Both men love to stand and bang and neither is afraid to take a shot.

Barnett is better on the ground – Browne may be better in the standup and I think that’s where this fight stays. Barnett needs to close the gap, get in tight and take this fight to the ground but Browne’s Muay Thai background and his ability to keep opponents on the outside with kicks will serve him well here.

In an entertaining bout, I like the underdog to prevail. Browne would be undefeated if not for a torn knee ligament against Antonio Silva and he already beat Alistair Overeem – he takes an enormous step toward a Title shot with a win Saturday.

Pick: Travis Browne +160
[ad-3573245]
Jim Miller (22-4-0): -365
Fabricio Camoes (14-7-1): +290

Fabricio Camoes climbs into the octagon with Jim Miller on Saturday night sporting a 1-2-1 record in his second stint in the UFC. Camoes is best described at a “C+” fighter while Miller, although he has had some blemishes the last year is still in the “B+/A-“ zone.

Jim Miller has a ton to prove and should outclass Camoes in this one in relatively easy fashion.

Pick: Jim Miller -365

Dustin Poirier (14-3-0): -220
Diego Brandao (18-8-0): +180

Featherweights kick off the PPV portion of UFC 168 when Dustin Poirier takes on Diego Brandao. Brandao will try to extend his win streak to four while Poirier will be looking to throw his hat right back in the mix of the Featherweight division.

Both men will come to put on a show – both are exciting as they come and both will be motivated for a big showing here. The difference to me is cardio and how Brandao will be able to keep Poirier’s pace. I see Poirier doing damage early and significantly slowing Brandao down.

From there Poirier picks Brandao apart.

Pick: Dustin Poirier -220

Preliminary Card (FS1, 8 PM ET/5 PM PT)

Uriah Hall (7-4-0): -300 vs. Chris Leben (22-10-0): +240
Pick: Chris Leben +240

Gleison Tibau (28-9-0): -150 vs. Michael Johnson (13-8-0): +120
Pick: Gleison Tibau -150

Manny Gamburyan (13-7-0): +195 vs. Dennis Siver (21-9-0): -245
Pick: Dennis Siver -245

John Howard (21-8-0): +110 vs. Siyar Bahadurzada (21-5-1): -140
Pick: John Howard +110

Preliminary Card (Facebook, 7 PM ET/4 PM PT)

Bobby Voelker (24-10-0): -170 vs. William Macario (6-1-0): +140
Pick: Bobby Voelker -170

Robbie Peralta (16-4-0): -185 vs. Estevan Payan (14-4-0): +155
Pick: Robbie Peralta -185

CLICK HERE NOW to place a bet on UFC 168 At Bovada!

Categories
Fight Club

UFC 167 Handicapping | Betting Preview | Free UFC Picks

UFC 167 Preview and Picks

The greatest Welterweight in the history of MMA Georges St. Pierre will return to action Saturday looking to squash the dreams of yet another up and coming young fighter.

UFC 167: St. Pierre vs. Hendricks
Event: UFC 167: St. Pierre vs. Hendricks
Date: November 16, 2013
Time: 10pm ET/7pm PT
Location: Mandalay Bay Events Center, Las Vegas, Nevada

Main Bouts (on Pay-Per-View)

Georges St-Pierre (24-2): -280
Johny Hendricks (15-1): +210

UFC Odds From Bovada

The greatest Welterweight in the history of MMA Georges St. Pierre will return to action Saturday looking to squash the dreams of yet another up and coming young fighter. Although still relatively green his opponent Johny Hendricks brings an incredible set of skills to the Octagon – a nearly unmatched striking game and one of the more impressive wrestling pedigrees in the Division.

St. Pierre has long been criticized for his inability to finish a fight but he has become the master of taking exactly what his opponent gives him, exploiting it and utterly dominating anywhere the fight happens to go. His athleticism is top tier, his takedowns are nearly unstoppable and his jab is one of the most effective weapons in the sport today. But perhaps St. Pierre’s biggest asset – his brain. As one of the most cerebral fighters in MMA, opponents never know which area of their own game that Georges is going to exploit. Simply put, St. Pierre has absolutely no weaknesses – all he does is win!

Johny Hendricks is a former two-time national wrestling champion – his takedowns, takedown defense and top game are at least equal to that of St. Pierre’s – you can’t say that about many of recent challengers. Perhaps Hendricks’ biggest weapon is his left hand – he has made a living out of turning out the lights with one shot! Hendricks is certainly well rounded and as dangerous in every area of the game as anyone St. Pierre has ever faced.

You have to love what Hendricks brings to the Octagon but you have to love St. Pierre’s penchant fro intense preparation to shine again in this fight. No matter what any of Georges opponents have done – he has had an answer for – I don’t see that changing Saturday. In a wrestling ring, I may lean Johny’s way but in the Octagon I have to go with Georges in every aspect – even wrestling. Georges avoids the difference making left hand and wins yet another decision Saturday night.

Pick: Georges St. Pierre -280

Rashad Evans (18-3-1): -190
Chael Sonnen (28-13-1): +155

In perhaps the most interesting fight on the card Rashad Evans will look to take a step toward a rematch against Jon Jones when he takes on the Mouth of the UFC Chael Sonnen. Is Sonnen on every UFC card or is it just me? Anyway, this fight will be a battle of two excellent wrestlers that need to impose their wills in order to secure victory.

Rashad is the superior athlete in this fight and I think that’s the difference. There is no wrestling edge for either fighter in this bout. And as we’ve seen in the past when the wrestling chops are equal, they tend to cancel each other out. That leaves us to a question of who is the better striker, who has the technique and power in a stand-up war.

The answer to that question is simple to me. A very motivated Rashad takes this fight and remains on the Jon Jones radar. An Evans loss means that he will descend to the world of the “B level fighters” and may never get a title shot again – don’t think he doesn’t know it!

Pick: Rashad Evans -190

Rory MacDonald (15-1): -375
Robbie Lawler (21-9): +275

Rory MacDonald will look to remain relevant in the Welterweight Division Saturday night when he takes on true veteran Robbie Lawler. MacDonald is winner of five straight fights while Lawler has recently seen a resurgence with two straight wins (after losing three of four in Strikeforce).

MacDonald is certainly better in every aspect of MMA at this point of his career – even training partner Georges St. Pierre has anointed him as the future of the division. Lawler will either finish the fight or be finished and in this case, his recklessness costs him.

[ad-3573245]

MacDonald’s camp is terrific at fight planning and it won’t be difficult to come up with a plan against Lawler. Consider this another stepping stone for MacDonald as he wins in impressive fashion Saturday night.

Pick: Rory MacDonald -375

Josh Koscheck (17-7): -110
Tyron Woodley (11-2): -120

Josh Koschek will look to put an end to a two fight losing streak when he takes on fellow wrestler Tyron Woodley who can make a huge statement with a win here. Koschek has the experience advantage, the edge in the standup and he also has the knowledge that he took Johny Hendricks to a decision last May. Kos seems to be a fading star but I think he has one or two last gasps in him.

Pick: Josh Koschek -110

Tim Elliott (10-3-1): -150
Ali Bagautinov (11-2): +120

Flyweights open the PPV card Saturday when Russian sambo master Ali Bagautinov takes on another prospect and recent Fight of the Night winner Tim Elliot. Elliot is a nice fighter but the UFC brass appears to be pumping the tires of Bagautinov. In a typically exciting Flyweight bout, I think the skills of Bagautinov slightly outweigh those of Elliot in this one.

Pick: Ali Bagautinov +120

Preliminary Bouts (on Fox Sports 1)

Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone (20-6): -120 vs. Evan Dunham (14-4): -110
Pick: Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone -110

Ed Herman (21-9, 1 NC): +165 vs. Thales Leites (21-4): -210
Pick: Thales Leites -210

Brian Ebersole (50-15-1): +165 vs. Rick Story (15-7): -210
Pick: Brian Ebersole +165

Erik Perez (13-5): -375 vs. Edwin Figueroa (9-3): +275
Pick: Erik Perez -375

Preliminary Bouts (on Facebook)

Jason High (17-4): -300 vs. Anthony Lapsley (21-5, 2 NC): +220
Pick: Jason High -300

Will Campuzano: +325 vs. Sergio Pettis (9-0): -450
Pick: Sergio Pettis -450

Cody Donovan (8-3): +250 vs. Gian Villante (10-4): -350
Pick: Cody Donovan +250

CLICK HERE NOW to place a bet on UFC 167 At Bovada!

Categories
Fight Club

UFC 166 Handicapping | Betting Preview | Free UFC Picks

UFC 166 Preview and Picks

The UFC stars will be on display once again this Saturday when UFC 166 takes place in Houston, Texas. A trilogy bout for the Heavyweight title between Cain Velazquez and Junior dos Santos headlines one of the best cards of the year – let’s take a look.

UFC 166: Velasquez vs. Dos Santos 3
Date: October 19, 2013
Time: 10pm ET/7pm PT
Location: Toyota Center, Houston, Texas
Broadcast: Pay-per-view

Main Card (on Pay-Per-View):

Cain Velasquez (12-1): -200
Junior dos Santos (16-2): +160

UFC Odds From Bovada

Cain Velazquez and Junior dos Santos are in a class by themselves when it comes to Heavyweights in mixed martial arts – there are simply the best on the planet. They will fight for the third time in two years to determine the absolute top dog in the sport. Each brings an unmatched set of strengths to the Octagon Saturday – the trick will be to lure their opponent into their type of fight.

The Champ Cain Velazquez is the best wrestler in the Heavyweight Division – his takedowns, takedown defense and ground control are like no other. He also has arguably the best cardio of any fighter on the UFC roster today and an ever-emerging striking game as demonstrated in his last fight with dos Santos.

Junior dos Santos will be looking to reclaim what he thinks is his – the Heavyweight belt Saturday. He is the most dominant boxer in the division – technically sound on his feet with power to spare. Apparently he has a jiu-jitsu game as well but we have never seen that aspect of his game. Like Velazquez, dos Santos is supremely conditioned and ready to go five rounds Saturday.

This bout is pretty tough to call but looking at the last fight, I have to lean Velazquez’s way. He beat dos Santos in absolutely every aspect of that fight and even had the edge in the standup. Velazquez proved that he was a terrific student in that fight and is leaps-and-bounds ahead of the fighter that lost to dos Santos in their first fight. Constant pressure, elite wrestling and adequate striking earns Cain Velazquez the decision win Saturday.

Pick: Cain Velazquez -200

Daniel Cormier (12-0): -600
Roy Nelson (19-8): +400

Undefeated Daniel Cormier puts his streak on the line against the guy that gives fat guys reason to get up in the morning – Roy Nelson. This fight has all the makings of Fight of the Night for sure – two huge grappling practitioners with lethal standup. It could be a classic.

Cormier was an elite college wrestler who added submissions and a terrific standup game to his repertoire. He holds wins over Josh Barnett, Antonio Silva and most recently Frank Mir and looks poised to take that next step toward heavyweight superstardom.

Roy Nelson is a jiu-jitsu Black Belt with and absolutely insane chin and an ability to stand and bang with anyone. He is a tough out for anyone and a good test for a fighter trying to climb the ladder in the UFC.

Cormier is a huge favorite here – he is a B+ fighter while Nelson is a C+/B- fighter. I have to take the all around game of Cormier in this one but make this pick with some reservations. All Nelson needs is one clean shot!

Pick: Daniel Cormier -600

Gilbert Melendez (21-3): -700
Diego Sanchez (24-5): +450

Gilbert Melendez will step into the UFC Octagon for just the second time Saturday – the first being a split decision loss to Ben Henderson. His opponent Saturday is Diego Sanchez – a recent controversial winner against Takanori Gomi at UFC on FUEL 8.

Melendez is an absolutely elite level Lightweight – speed, cardio, wrestling and striking are all solid parts of his game. Melendez has no holes! Sanchez is a tough guy but is a tier or two below Melendez in absolutely every aspect of this fight.  [ad-3573245]

Melendez fancies himself a title contender and proves that he is worthy for a shot Saturday!

Pick: Gilbert Melendez -700

Gabriel Gonzaga (15-7): +160
Shawn Jordan (15-4): -200

Another Heavyweight scrap is on tap for the Main Card at UFC 166 when Gabriel Gonzaga takes on striker Shawn Jordan. Gonzaga has had his issues in the UFC in the past but is 3-1 in his recent stint here.

Gonzaga is head-and shoulders above Jordan in terms of ground game and I think that is precisely where this fight ends up – on the mat. Jordan is an OK striker as is Gonzaga but ultimately this fight will be determined by work on the ground. Jordan is a fish out of water in this one!

Pick: Gabriel Gonzaga +160

John Dodson (15-6): -350
Darrell Montague (13-2): +250

Flyweights kick off the Main Card at UFC 166 when one of the best in the world Darrell Montague finally makes his long-awaited Octagon debut. His opponent – another top tier Flyweight John Dodson who has already fought and lost to Demetrious Johnson for the UFC title.

Dodson is one tough dude, able to make anyone’s debut in the UFC less-than-hospitable. Dodson is too fast, too powerful and too hungry to get another title shot to be denied in this one.

Pick: John Dodson -350

Preliminary Card (on Fox Sports 1):

Tim Boetsch (16-6): -170 vs. CB Dolloway (13-4): +140
Pick: Tim Boetsch -170

Nate Marquardt (32-12-2): +145 vs. Hector Lombard (32-4-1): -175
Pick: Nate Marquardt +145

Sarah Kaufman (15-2): -220 vs. Jessica Eye (10-1): +175
Pick: Sarah Kaufman -220

George Sotiropoulos (14-5): +135 vs. KJ Noons (11-7): -165
Pick: KJ Noons -165

Preliminary Card (on Facebook):

TJ Waldburger (16-7): +135 vs. Adlan Amagov (12-2-1): -165
Pick: TJ Waldburger +135

Tony Ferguson (13-3): -400 vs. Mike Rio (9-2): +300
Pick: Tony Ferguson -400

Jeremy Larsen (8-4): +160 vs. Andre Fili (12-1): -200
Pick: Andre Fili -200

Dustin Pague (11-8): +130 vs. Kyoji Horiguchi (11-1): -160
Pick: Kyoji Horiguchi -160

CLICK HERE NOW to place a bet on UFC 166 At Bovada!

Categories
Fight Club

UFC 165 Handicapping | Betting Preview | Free UFC Picks

UFC 165 Jones vs. Gustafsson Handicapping

The UFC returns to Canada Saturday for UFC 165 – a card that features one of the most dominant champions in the organization. Jon Jones will defend his Light Heavyweight title for the sixth time against Alexander Gustafsson.

The odds are certainly stacked against the Swedish challenger but it wasn’t that long ago that another of the UFCs untouchables fell at the hands of an upstart challenger (cough, cough – Anderson Silva). It’s a pretty explosive card with excitement promised as always.

Let’s break it down.

UFC 165: Jones vs. Gustafsson
Date: September 21, 2013
Time: 10pm ET/7pm PT
Location: Air Canada Centre, Toronto, Canada
Broadcast: Pay-per-view
UFC Odds From Bovada

MAIN CARD

Jon Jones (18-1): -900
Alexander Gustafsson (15-1): +550

Jon Jones and Alexander Gustafsson each have one loss in their careers but in Jones’ case it was a DQ loss in a fight he was totally dominating. In other word, he hasn’t “lost” so far in his career. The reason? Athleticism, size, length and an imagination unlike any other in the UFC.

Jones is perhaps the most athletic fighter in the UFC. He is long, he is lanky, he is quick, he is unorthodox and he is simply top notch anywhere a fight happens to go. Taking a look at whom he’s defeated is a who’s who of MMA legendry – Shogun Rua, Lyoto Machida, Rashad Evans, Rampage Jackson and Vitor Belfort to name a few.

Alexander Gustafsson is one of the few in the world that will actually have a size advantage over Jones – he may surprisingly have the striking advantages as well! At 6’5”, Gustafsson has been able to use his insane boxing skills to inflict damage and to stay out of the way of potential danger zones. He is an ideal “stick and move” fighter with devastating kicks and surprisingly good defense. Beyond that, there isn’t a whole lot that stands out.

Gustafsson has been working on his wrestling ahead of this fight and it is a good thing – his only real chance however is if this fight remains upright. The Swede has a good gas tank, a good striking pedigree and seemingly a good knowledge of what his opponents wants to do in the Octagon.

The problem is that Jones himself enters with a multitude of ways he can beat you.

This fight is only happening because there is nobody left! Jones is on his way to history – Gustafsson is just another speed bump.

Pick: Jon Jones -900

Renan Barao (30-1): -650
Eddie Wineland (20-8-1): +425

The interim bantamweight title is on the line Saturday when Renan Barao takes on Eddie Wineland. Wineland has been knocking on the door recently but every time he steps up he is knocked down again. Recent losses to Urijah Faber and Joseph Benavidez seem to prove that he is not quite ready for prime time just yet.

Renan Barao has won 31 fights in a row for a reason – he is a beast that could be the best all-around fighter in the game right now. His strikes are superb and his submission game is second to none in the bantamweight division.

Wineland is a tough guy and a decent all-around fighter but Barao is on a different level along with Dominick Cruz in the bantamweight division. The Brazilian has the advantage anywhere this fight happens to end up. It should be exciting but it will be predictable.

Pick: Renan Barao -650

Matt Mitrione (6-2): -120
Brendan Schaub (9-3): -110

Two former UFC prospects and TUF alums in the midst of mini-slumps look to right their ships in Toronto Saturday. Matt Mitrione and Brendan Schaub will look to change their fortunes around after losing two of their last three fights. A loss Saturday for either fighter may be their last with the organization.

Mitrione brings terrific athleticism to the Octagon. He is a former NFLer with terrific power – five of his six wins have come by KO while Schaub has a similar stat-line – 7 of nine wins by KO.
In a matchup of evenly-skilled fighters with similar experience, I will take the more athletic of the two.

Pick: Matt Mitrione -120

Francis Carmont (21-7): +155
Costa Philippou (12-2): -190

A battle of the five fight win streaks takes place when striking machine Costa Philippou takes on French MMA star Francis Carmont in Middleweight action. Both fighters, on paper have been tremendous lately and both have six KOs on their résumés. Philippou will definitely have the stand-up and power edge while Carmont will look to stifle his opponent in typical style.

Carmont has a knack of dumbing down a fight like nobody in the Middleweight Division. He will look to smother Philippou and will have success doing so. I see a justified frustrated Philippou being dragged the full three rounds and be outpointed in typical boring, grinding Carmont style. [ad-3573245]

Pick: Francis Carmont +155

Pat Healy (29-16): +200
Khabib Nurmagomedov (20-0): -260

Pat Healy will look to build on an impressive win over Jim Miller (before his positive drug test!!!) when he takes on undefeated Khabib Nurmagomedov – one of the most impressive emerging grapplers in the Lightweight division. With a possible title shot on the line, this fight has potential to be best of the night.

Khabib Nurmagomedov has had his way with the lower tiers of the Lightweight division but gets his biggest test Saturday. Healy is a tough guy – well rounded with a terrific chin and a ton of experience. Healy also has a stellar wrestling background that should be able to somewhat minimize what Nurmagomedov hopes to do – Healy is a takedown machine that may have met his grappling match!

That said Nurmagomedov looks to be that guy being groomed for bigger things in the UFC.

Healy is a stepping stone (a tough one at that) along the way to bigger things for Khabib Nurmagomedov.

Pick: Khabib Nurmagomedov -260

UFC PRELIMS LIVE ON FOX SPORTS 1

Myles Jury (12-0): -400 vs. Mike Ricci (8-3): +300
Pick: Myles Jury -400

Ivan Menjivar (25-10): -190 vs. Wilson Reis (16-4): +155
Pick: Ivan Menjivar -190

Chris Clements (11-4): +220 vs. Stephen Thompson (7-1): -300
Pick: Chris Clements +220

Mitch Gagnon (9-2): +175 vs. Dustin Kimura (10-0): -220
Pick: Mitch Gagnon +175

UFC PRELIMS LIVE STREAM ON FACEBOOK

Renee Forte (8-2): +165 vs. John Makdessi (11-2): -210
Pick: -210

Michel Prazeres (16-1): +140 vs. Jesse Ronson (13-2): -170
Pick: Michel Prazeres +140

‘Bruce Leeroy’ Alex Caceres (8-5): -155 vs. Roland Delorme (9-1): +125
Pick: Roland Delorme +125

Nandor Guelmino (11-4-1): +220 vs. Daniel Omielanczuk (15-3-1): -300
Pick: Daniel Omielanczuk -300

CLICK HERE NOW to place a bet on UFC 164 At Bovada!

Categories
Fight Club

UFC 164 Handicapping | Betting Preview | Free UFC Picks

UFC 164: Henderson vs. Pettis Handicapping

One of the most dominant champions in the UFC today, Ben Henderson returns to the Octagon Saturday night to defend his Lightweight strap against the very dangerous Anthony Pettis. Both men are extremely well rounded making this a fight NOT to be missed.

Continue reading “UFC 164 Handicapping | Betting Preview | Free UFC Picks”
Categories
Fight Club

UFC 163 Handicapping | Betting Preview | Free UFC Picks

UFC 163: Aldo vs. Zombie

Arguably the most dominant champion in the UFC returns to the Octagon in his home country of Brazil this weekend to headline UFC 163. Aldo was supposed to fight Anthony Pettis before injury forced him out of action.

Date: August 3, 2013
Time: 10pm ET/7pm PT
Location: HSBC Arena, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Broadcast: Pay-per-view
UFC Odds From Bovada

Main Card (PPV)

Jose Aldo (22-1-0): -750
Chan Sung Jung (12-3-0): +475

Enter Chan Sung Jung – the Korean Zombie whose penchant for creating a good fight may have won him this title shot rather than his recent results.

Jung has been good since making his way from the WEC to the UFC, make no mistake about it – beating Mark Hominick and Dustin Poirier. But Aldo is in a completely different league. The Zombie likely won’t abandon his style in this fight – he will move straight ahead and into the danger zones of the Champ. Jung’s aggressiveness has been his friend in the past but it will likely be the enemy here.

Aldo’s striking ability is legendary – his ability to keep his opposition at bay with lethal leg kicks has been nothing short of remarkable and his ability to counterstrike effectively against an over-zealous opponent has been insanely successful. Jung will have to take some chances and that plays right into Aldo’s hands.

Nobody has gotten close to Aldo the last couple of years and that likely won’t change Saturday. Jung can take a beating and keep on ticking and that may be the only thing that keeps him in this fight past the first round. Aldo gets it done in front of his home town fans in highlight reel fashion while Jung leaves Brazil battered and bruised.

Pick: Jose Aldo -750

Lyoto Machida (19-3-0): -350 vs. Phil Davis (11-1-1): +265

Another of Brazil’s favorite sons takes to the Octagon Saturday night when Lyoto Machida meets Phil Davis with a possible Light Heavyweight title shot on the line. Machida will be dependent on his patience, his stellar counterstriking game and his unorthodox Judo stance while Davis will attempt to turn this fight into a wrestling match.

Davis is an elite wrestler with an emerging striking game. He has been close to challenging for the title in the past but lost to Rashad Evans in a match in which he appeared totally outclassed. More mature and developed inside the Octagon, Davis will try to take that step again – this time as an emerging superstar instead of intriguing prospect.

Machida has reached the pinnacle of the Light Heavyweight Division – he has fought the best there is in the world with mixed reactions but one thing has been consistent – his style has been an absolute nightmare for his opposition to deal with. He can stop the takedown and make you pay for trying, he can outwait even the best in the business and he has a superb ground game to counteract what Davis will inevitably attempt to do.

Simply put – there isn’t a whole lot that Davis will be bringing to the Octagon that Machida hasn’t already seen. Davis’s only shot is to drag this fight to the mat quickly and Machida knowing that will most certainly have an answer. Machida is too patient, too good and too motivated to get back to the top of the ladder to be denied in this one. Davis still has some things to learn and Machida is a great teacher!

Pick: Lyoto Machida -350

Cezar Ferreira (5-2-0): -450 vs. Thiago Santos (11-3-0): +325

The winner of The Ultimate Fighter Brazil Cezar Ferreira will attempt to prove his legion of doubters wrong on Saturday night when he takes on late injury replacement Thiago Santos. Ferreira won his contract after the favorite to win it all Daniel Sarafian was forced out of the competition with an injury and he defeated Sergio Moraes whom he already defeated.

Santos has some OK striking skills but her certainly but his all around game is not quite the caliber we expect on the main card of a UFC event. Ferreira has altered his training regiment since the show – he is now a member of the Blackzilians and has to be given credibility based upon that.

Not a ton is known about these two fighters but what is know is that Ferreira appears to be the better all around talent. [ad-3573245]

Pick: Cezar Ferreira -450

Thales Leites (20-4-0): -130 vs. Tom Watson (16-5-0): EVEN

Thales Leites returns from nearly a year away from the Octagon and four years away from the UFC to take on Brit Tom Watson who is fresh off a Knockout of the Night and Fight of the Night effort against Stanislav Nedkov. This after an unflattering UFC debut loss to Brad Tavares.

There is no denying that Leites will bring a high level grappling game to the Octagon as well as experience against high level competition – he fought Anderson Silva and Alessio Sakara during his last stint in the UFC.

But Watson has been by far the busier of the two fighters and enters on a high and with a ton to prove. The crowd loves Leites Saturday – I love Watson!

Pick: Tom Watson EVEN

John Lineker (21-6-0): -450 vs. Jose Maria Tome (33-3-0): +325

Flyweights open the Pay-per-view portion of Saturday night’s card when the #7 ranked John Lineker takes on late injury replacement Brazilian and UFC virgin Jose Maria Tome. Tome is no slouch – he has won 33 times in his career and he hasn’t tasted defeat in his last 16 bouts.

But Lineker has a ton to prove and he last won two months ago in another fight in Brazil. Lineker is a good fighter and has faced some decent competition while Tome although his record is impressive has faced basically nobody of note.

Lineker takes this one by decision – he is the better fighter and has proven himself against the higher level of competition.

Pick: John Lineker -450

Preliminary Card (FX)

Vinny Magalhaes (10-6-0): -400 vs. Anthony Perosh (13-3-0): +300
Pick: Vinny Magalhaes -400

Amanda Nunes (7-3-0): -400 vs. Sheila Gaff (10-5-1): +300
Pick: Amanda Nunes -400

Sergio Moraes (7-2-0): -135 vs. Neil Magny (8-1-0): +105
Pick: Neil Magny +105

Ian McCall (11-4-1): -400 vs. Iliarde Santos (27-7-1): +300
Pick: Ian McCall -400

Preliminary Card (Facebook)

Rani Yahya (18-7-0): -900 vs. Josh Clopton (6-1-1): +550
Pick: Rani Yahya -900

Viscardi Andrade (13-5-0): -170 vs. Bristol Marunde (12-8-0): +140
Pick: Viscardi Andrade -170

Ednaldo Oliveira (13-1-1): -150 vs. Francimar Barroso (15-3-0): +120
Pick: Francimar Barroso +120

CLICK HERE NOW to place a bet on UFC 163 At Bovada!

Categories
Fight Club

UFC 162 Handicapping | Betting Preview | Free UFC Picks

UFC 162: Silva vs. Weidman

Arguably the greatest mixed martial arts practitioner in history returns to the Octagon Saturday against an opponent that most feel will be his toughest test to date – the undefeated Chris Weidman.

Continue reading “UFC 162 Handicapping | Betting Preview | Free UFC Picks”
Categories
Fight Club

UFC 160 Handicapping | Betting Preview | Free UFC Picks

UFC 160 Picks

UFC 160: Velasquez vs. Silva 2

The Heavyweight Title will be on the line this Saturday when Antonio Silva tries to avenge a devastating loss to Cain Velasquez and in turn take his belt. Silva has emerged as maybe the best of the “B fighters” in the UFC after knocking out Alistair Overeem last time out.

Continue reading “UFC 160 Handicapping | Betting Preview | Free UFC Picks”
Categories
Fight Club

UFC 159 Jones vs. Sonnen Handicapping | Betting Preview | Free UFC Picks

UFC 159: Jones vs. Sonnen

The fight that almost nobody called for finally goes down on Saturday when Jon Jones, one of the most dominant Light Heavyweight fighters ever seen takes on a Middleweight mouthpiece that seemed to somehow talk his way into this fight – and we all know that Chael Sonnen can talk!

Continue reading “UFC 159 Jones vs. Sonnen Handicapping | Betting Preview | Free UFC Picks”
Categories
Fight Club

UFC 158 St. Pierre vs. Diaz Handicapping | Betting Preview | Free UFC Picks

UFC 158: St. Pierre vs. Diaz

Georges St. Pierre finally gets the fight he’s been seeking for a couple of years when he takes on the brash, obnoxious Nick Diaz at UFC 158 – assuming that Diaz doesn’t do something stupid between now and fight time.

Continue reading “UFC 158 St. Pierre vs. Diaz Handicapping | Betting Preview | Free UFC Picks”