This weekend, the UFC sets the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas ablaze with UFC 303. Headlining the event is a highly anticipated rematch for the light heavyweight championship between current titleholder Alex Pereira and the man he dethroned just a few months ago, Jiří Procházka.
The card is stacked with intriguing matchups, offering plenty of opportunities for fans to witness exciting fights and potentially profitable bets via MMA Betting Picks. Let’s delve into some of the key bouts and analyze the fighters’ chances.
Main Event: Rematch for Redemption (Alex Pereira (-155) vs. Jiří Procházka (+125))
The light heavyweight championship bout promises fireworks. In their first encounter at UFC 295, Pereira shocked the world with a vicious second-round TKO over the previously undefeated Procházka. However, a shoulder injury forced Procházka out of the fight just as he was starting to unleash his signature aggressive style. This rematch offers Procházka a chance to redeem himself and reclaim his title, while Pereira looks to solidify his reign with another dominant performance.
Prediction: This fight is a toss-up. Pereira possesses devastating knockout power, but Procházka’s unorthodox striking and relentless pressure could overwhelm him. The key will be Procházka’s shoulder health. If it’s fully healed, he could pull off the upset. However, Pereira’s power is undeniable. Consider a small bet on Pereira by KO/TKO in the later rounds.
Co-Main Event: Featherweight Feud (Brian Ortega (+120) vs. Diego Lopes (-140))
The co-main event features a clash of featherweight contenders. Brian Ortega, a two-time title challenger known for his relentless grappling and submission skills, takes on the surging Diego Lopes. Lopes, a knockout artist with a perfect record inside the Octagon, presents a stylistic challenge for Ortega.
Prediction: This fight is another potential upset alert. While Ortega is the more well-rounded fighter, he can be susceptible to powerful strikes. Lopes’ explosiveness could pose a serious threat. For a riskier bet, consider Lopes by KO/TKO in the early rounds.
Potential Upsets:
l Anthony Smith (+124) vs. Roman Dolidze (-130): Light heavyweight contender Anthony Smith is known for his durability and knockout power. Despite being the underdog against the undefeated Dolidze, Smith’s experience could be the deciding factor. A bet on Smith by decision could be a good value pick.
l Mayra Bueno Silva (-110) vs. Macy Chiasson (+100): In the women’s strawweight division, Mayra Bueno Silva is the favorite; however, Macy Chiasson’s inconsistency makes this fight unpredictable. If you believe Chiasson can find her rhythm, a bet on her by decision could be a surprise winner.
Remember: These are just predictions, and anything can happen inside the Octagon. Always conduct your own research and wager responsibly.
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images