Liam Lindsay

UFC Bantamweight fighter Kyler "The Matrix" Phillips has failed a drug test for the banned substance ostarine and has been suspended for one year. He has not fought since February 2021, and his inactive streak will persist for longer.

Phillips, who's 4-1 inside the UFC, is an exciting fighter who's already secured three performance bonuses across five bouts. His notable victories come over Song Yadong and Marcelo Rojo, and he also has a thrilling fight of the night decision loss to Raulian Paiva. 

![phillips-vs-paiva.webp](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/64970ca4-a27b-4989-9085-c0261ba8b200/pub "Kyler Phillips going to war against Ralian Paiva. Credits to: Jeff Bottari - Zuffa LLC.")

Over a dozen UFC fighters had tested positive for ostarine before, including Phillips's close teammate and training partner, the #2 ranked Bantamweight "Sugar" Sean O'Malley. His reasoning for the positive test was that he was taking a contaminated supplement, which was revealed to be genuine post-investigation.

![omalley-smile.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/583e146d-0560-467c-b3a0-f2935b5d7800/pub "Seam O'Malley getting the victory in his last bout against against Petr Yan at UFC 280. Credits to: Craig Kidwell - USA TODAY Sports.")

No statement has been released by Phillips yet. How do you think the increased layoff will affect "The Matrix"? As a member of the Verdict Community, let us know your prediction and thoughts in the comments below.

UFC Bantamweight Kyler Phillips Tests Positive For Banned Substance

Douglas Vegas Bets

The UFC holds its final PPV card of the year this weekend from the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, headlined by Flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja defending his title against Japanese newcomer Kai Asakura along with a Welterweight Co-Main featuring undefeated stars Shavkat Rakhmonov and Ian Garry going head to head. I went over that matchup and every other fight on this stacked card to give my predictions and best bets, so let's get into it.

**Odds provided by DuelBits accurate as of 12/2/2024**

## Alexandre Pantoja -263 vs. Kai Asakura +210

The Flyweight title is on the line in our main event as a new challenger arrives from a different organization. Alexandre Pantoja has dominated the division for years with a ridiculous amount of wins against top ten opponents, having used his insane pressure mixed with world-class grappling and a granite chin to break every fighter across from him. Kai Asakura joins the UFC as the Rizin champion known for his exciting style and dangerous knockout power, although he has lost when facing UFC-caliber opposition before, like Manel Kape and Kyoji Horiguchi.

I like Pantoja here as he is the much superior grappler with the defensive skills and durability to avoid allowing the big shots from Asakura to change the fight.

Prediction: Pantoja by 2nd Round Submission

## Shavkat Rakhmonov -370 vs. Ian Garry +280

Undefeated Welterweights are looking to lay claim to the next shot at Belal Muhammad's title clash in this incredible co-main event matchup. Shavkat Rakhmonov is an absolute monster who is massive for the division while having finished every opponent he has ever faced using his powerful and technical striking along with a deadly submission attack. Ian Garry is a highly skilled striker who showed his well-rounded game last time out as he used his ground game to take down Michael 'Venom' Page.

I'm taking Garry at these odds, as he has the skills to keep Rakhmonov at a distance and win a striking battle while controlling the range using his straight shots.

Prediction: Garry by Decision

## Ciryl Gane -345 vs. Alexander Volkov +265

Rematch here at Heavyweight between two top contenders looking to enter the conversation for a shot at the title. Ciryl Gane is a fast kickboxer with great movement for the division, although his ground game remains a serious concern, with Francis Ngannou taking him down repeatedly and Jon Jones quickly subbing him. Alexander Volkov looks for revenge here after winning his last four fights, with three coming by way of finish, having shown he is more than a striker with a submission win over Tai Tuivasa.

I got Gane getting it done again here, as I see him still being the much cleaner striker, and I don't see the grappling becoming enough of a factor to change the last result.

Prediction: Gane by Decision

## Bryce Mitchell -667 vs. Kron Gracie +450

Featherweight grapplers collide here with classic wrestling, taking on a legendary family member in the Jiu-Jitsu world. Bryce Mitchell returns after a year off since his brutal knockout loss to Josh Emmett, looking to show that his wrestling is still a threat to the top of the division, as he did in his wins over Dan Ige and Edson Barboza. Kron Gracie is an incredibly dangerous submission artist who will look to rebound from back-to-back losses here after struggling to get opponents to the ground with him in his last two games against Charles Jourdain and Cub Swanson.

I'll take the chance on Gracie here as although his last performances don't inspire confidence, Mitchell has a style that will play into Gracie's strengths on the ground, and at this price, I will go with Gracie to catch Mitchell in a submission.

Prediction: Gracie by 1st Round Submission

## Nate Landwehr -143 vs. Doo Ho Choi +117

Featherweights, both known for putting on a show, open the main card here in this explosive matchup. Nate Landwehr is an always entertaining fighter with decent kickboxing and solid submission skills as well, although he is very hittable on the feet, as David Onama and Herbert Burns made him pay for. Doo Ho Choi is a powerful and technical boxer who hasn't been consistently active, but when he does get in the cage, he gets results as he did last time out by becoming just the second man to finish Bill Algeo with strikes. 

I like Choi here as he is the much cleaner and harder-hitting striker who I see hurting Landwehr and avoiding grappling before eventually finding a knockout finish.

Prediction: Choi by 2nd Round KO

## Anthony Smith +260 vs. Dominick Reyes -333

Former title challengers square off here at Light Heavyweight. Anthony Smith is a well-rounded fighter, and he showed solid submission skills against Vitor Petrino, although his cardio and pace have been bad lately, especially in his loss to Roman Dolidze. Dominick Reyes bounced back in his last fight by scoring a first-round knockout over Dustin Jacoby, showing he still has the power that once brought him as close as any man has been to beating Jon Jones before he suffered several knockout losses in a row.

Reyes looked sharp against Jacoby and proved that the power is still in his hands, while I question if there is anything left in Anthony Smith after watching his recent fights, so I'll go with Reyes to get another knockout win here.

Prediction: Reyes by 1st Round TKO

## Vicente Luque +136 vs. Themba Gorimbo -167

Dangerous Welterweights go head to head in this interesting matchup. Vicente Luque is a violent finisher who has struggled recently since a brutal beat down from Geoff Neal, although at his best, he remains a powerful puncher with a nasty submission game. Themba Gorimbo steps in for a big opportunity here after a couple of wins over Ramiz Brahimaj and Niko Price, where he used his decent control grappling to get the decision. 

I've got Luque here, as even in his current form, I believe he should be the favorite over a fighter like Gorimbo, who has not impressed me so far in his UFC run.

Prediction: Luque by 2nd Round TKO

## Movsar Evloev -263 vs. Aljamain Sterling +210

Featherweight grapplers, each near the top of the line for a title shot, face off in this fantastic prelim clash. Movsar Evloev is an undefeated grappler with an impressive skill set, as he has shown in wins over tough opponents like Dan Ige, Diego Lopes, and Arnold Allen. Aljamain Sterling looks to continue his run for a second title here after a win over Calvin Kattar in his debut at this weight proved that his strength and grappling skills translated up a division.

I'm going with Evloev to get another decision here as I see him as the better striker with the grappling skills to nullify Sterling or have his own success there.

Prediction: Evloev by Decision (Best Bet)

## Randy Brown +180 vs. Bryan Battle -227

Must see matchup here between two showmen at Welterweight. Randy Brown is a slick striker with a long reach for the division that he uses well offensively, although his defense leaves much to be desired as his hands are often down, and his chin is not very good. Bryan Battle has begun to make noise in the division as he is coming off what should be four stoppage wins in a row, showing the ability to drown opponents with his pressure on the feet or take them out early like he did with Takashi Sato and Gabe Green.

I like Battle to get another finish here, as he has been on a roll and will not give Brown the space he likes to operate with, which I believe will lead to him landing a big shot and finishing the fight.

Prediction: Battle by 2nd Round TKO

## Chris Weidman -110 vs. Eryk Anders -111

After a last-minute cancellation a few weeks ago, Middleweights will meet now. Chris Weidman is a gritty wrestler who worked hard to return from his gruesome leg injury several years ago. Eryk Anders is a tough veteran who has ground out some tough wins, including his last fight, where he came back against Jamie Pickett.

I'll go with Weidman as his wrestling is still good enough that he will have an advantage or, at the very least, be able to nullify Anders there, and the striking is close, but I give Weidman the edge after seeing Anders dropped in his last fight.

Prediction: Weidman by Decision

## Cody Durden +128 vs. Joshua Van -156

Fun to watch Flyweights, who have been calling each other's names for some time now, square off in this one. Cody Durden is a very active wrestler coming off a finish over Matt Schnell and a loss to Bruno Silva, where he looked incredible until he was finished. Joshua Van is a young up-and-comer with a fun style that has produced some exciting wins, as it did at the Sphere in his wild fight with Edgar Chairez.

I lean towards Van here as although Durden may have a grappling advantage, I give Van the finishing upside, and he is younger, meaning he is more likely to improve his game.

Prediction: Van by 3rd Round TKO

## Michael Chiesa +108 vs. Max Griffin -133

Veteran Welterweights look to show they still have some in the tank here. Michael Chiesa is a strong wrestler who comes in off a first-round finish of Tony Ferguson, which was his first win since early 2021. Max Griffin is a powerful boxer who still has the skills to compete at a high level, as he showed in his loss to the highly touted Michael Morales when he gave the undefeated prospect a difficult time.

I'm taking Griffin here as Chiesa has not looked great since coming back from a major back injury, and Griffin still has the power to make him pay if he moves as slowly as he has looked.

Prediction: Griffin by 1st Round TKO

## Clay Guida +620 vs. Chase Hooper -1000

Lightweight grapplers from different generations battle here early on the prelims. Clay Guida is a gritty veteran with solid wrestling, although it is clear his best days are behind him at age forty-two with twenty-one finish losses. Chase Hooper has looked great since moving up to Lightweight, having shown his grappling skills are good enough and improving his striking enough to drop Viacheslav Borshchev, a credentialed kickboxer.

Hooper should be able to handle this test easily as he has Guida beat everywhere and is much younger and less weathered.

Prediction: Hooper by 2nd Round Submission

## Kennedy Nzechukwu -556 vs. Lukasz Brzeski +390

Heavyweights open the card here. Kennedy Nzechukwu is a big brawler who makes a quick turnaround from his debut at this weight, where he finished Chris Barnett in the first round. Lukasz Brzeski has struggled to find consistent success in the UFC, having lost four of his five fights, having shown lackluster striking skills and not much grappling either.

This should be another easy win for Nzechukwu, although after seeing how he performed as this type of favorite against Ovince St. Preux, I would advise people to avoid adding him to their parlays.

Prediction: Nzechukwu by 1st Round KO

UFC 310 Odds Breakdown

The UFC heads to Macau this weekend, where the Galaxy Arena will host a stacked UFC card headlined by former champions Petr Yan and Deiveson Figueiredo going head-to-head in a massive Bantamweight clash. I went over that matchup and every other fight on this loaded card to give my predictions and best bets, so let's get into it.

**Odds provided by DuelBits accurate as of 11/20/2024**

## Petr Yan -303 vs. Deiveson Figueiredo +235

This week's main event features two of the most violent Bantamweights on the roster as they clash with a potential title opportunity on the line. Petr Yan is one of the most skilled fighters in the sport, with elite boxing and a very underrated ground game that he has used to break fighters like Jose Aldo and Sean O'Malley. Deiveson Figueiredo is a deadly finisher who has been on a fantastic run since moving up in weight, with his most recent win coming over Marlon 'Chito' Vera in a showing where he demonstrated his power by dropping the famously durable Chito in the final round to seal the victory.

I like Yan to get this one done as he has the skills to match Figueiredo everywhere while being much younger and faster. I see Yan building into his game as he usually does and finishing Figueiredo in the championship rounds.

Prediction: Yan by 4th Round TKO

## Xiaonan Yan -208 vs. Tabatha Ricci +165

Top contending Strawweights battle here, looking to earn a shot at Weili Zhang's title. Xiaonan Yan is a long striker with big power for the division, although her grappling has often cost her fights with Carla Esparza and Zhang being able to take her down and hold her whenever they wanted. Tabatha Ricci is a grappler who comes into this one having won six of her last seven, showing much-improved striking compared to early in her career while still having the dangerous ground game she has been known for, although against good defensive wrestlers, she can struggle to get the fight to the floor.

I'm going with Ricci as the underdog here, as she has the grappling skills to give Yan trouble. I also always like betting against fighters coming off a loss in their first title opportunity, as it is often a big letdown, and it is not easy to regain motivation after.

Prediction: Ricci by Decision

## Kenan Song +150 vs. Muslim Salikhov -185

Veteran Welterweight strikers square off here in this fun matchup. Kenan Song is a tough boxer who has proven he still has what it takes to compete at this level with his recent wins over the young Rolando Bedoya and fellow veteran Ricky Glenn. Muslim Salikhov is a unique striker with diverse attacks that include spinning kicks as well as more traditional strikes, although his durability has faded over the years, with two of his last three losses being by knockout.

This is a tough fight to call, as I give Song a slight volume edge and Salikhov a slight power edge. I lean towards Song, with him being the underdog, but this is a pass from me.

Prediction: Song by Split-Decision

## Cong Wang -909 vs. Gabriella Fernandes +560

An exciting prospect gets her next test here at Flyweight. Cong Wang made noise in her debut with a quick highlight knockout to establish she has arrived and is looking to get on the fast track to the title with her past win over current champion Valentina Shevchenko in kickboxing. Gabriella Fernandes is a good kickboxer with solid submissions, although her wrestling has been a weak point in the past.

This is a good matchup for Wang as she is likely to get another chance to show off her credentialed kickboxing skills which will likely result in another strong performance.

Prediction: Wang by 1st Round KO

## Volkan Oezdemir +200 vs. Carlos Ulberg -250

Hard-hitting Light Heavyweights collide in this must-see matchup. Volkan Oezdemir is a veteran known for his deadly power, which he has proven is still there, with his last two wins coming by first-round knockout over Johnny Walker and Bogdan Guskov. Carlos Ulberg is a very clean kickboxer with devastating power that has helped him finish five straight opponents on his six-fight win streak, including a very fast finish over Alonzo Menifield his last time out.

I am very high on Ulberg and believe this is another good matchup for him as he will get the kickboxing match he likes and will have key advantages, including age, height, and reach.

Prediction: Ulberg by 1st Round KO 

## Ozzy Diaz +240 vs. Mingyang Zhang -313

A pair of Light Heavyweight knockout artists looking to make a name for themselves open the main card here. Ozzy Diaz makes his debut here, and excitement can be expected, with his last six fights ending by knockout and his only loss in that time coming to the well-established Joe Pyfer. Mingyan Zhang made a lot of noise early in his UFC career with two straight first-round knockout wins, which extended his finish streak to ten straight, all coming in the first round.

I feel this is a fight that could go either way as both men have big power and have been finished before, so I'll take the sizeable underdog in Diaz to catch Zhang and pull the upset.

Prediction: Diaz by 1st Round KO

## Su Young You -147 vs. Balgyn Jenisuly +120

This matchup will be the Bantamweight final for the Road to UFC. Su Young You is a very creative grappler with dangerous finishing skills on the ground, although he has had some close fights in the tournament, which raises concern. Balgyn Jenisuly is a well-rounded fighter who came back after losing on the last Road to UFC and is now a win away from making good on his second chance.

I lean towards Jenisuly here as I feel he is the more well-rounded fighter who will have striking success and can limit the grappling of You or have success with his own ground game.

Prediction: Jenisuly by Decision

## Kiru Sahota +100 vs. Dong Hoon Choi -122

Here we have the Flyweight final for the Road to UFC. Kiru Sahota is a long fighter for the division who uses his size well to keep opponents at the end of punches and kicks, although his defense also relies on that, with him leaning away and his chin exposed. Dong Hoon Choi comes into this one undefeated, having two fun fights on the Road to UFC so far, although both were close to coming down to split decisions, as he is very willing to take a shot to give one back.

I'll take the much bigger fighter here in Sahota as I see him using his reach to keep Choi on the outside and win the rounds.

Prediction: Sahota by Decision (Best Bet)

## Xiaocan Feng -333 vs. Ming Shi +255

This fight is the Strawweight final in the Road to UFC tournament. Xiaocan Feng is coming into this, having dominated the tournament using her size and skills on the ground, which have looked very impressive. Ming Shi is a decent grappler who is small for even the Strawweight division and has not faced much legit competition.

I like Feng here as she is much bigger and has looked absolutely dominant in this tournament. I believe she will get a finish and make her way to the UFC.

Prediction: Feng by 1st Round TKO

## Carlos Hernandez -200 vs. Nyamjargal Tumendemberel +160

Intriguing matchup here at Flyweight between a tough veteran and an unbeaten newcomer. Carlos Hernandez is a fun fighter who has faced many tough tests thus far in his UFC career, showing a solid ground game and good volume striking, which almost helped him score a huge upset over Rei Tsuruya in his last fight. Nyamjargal Tumendemberel makes his debut here after winning the Road to UFC over a year ago; he is a fast finisher, although he has not faced any UFC-caliber opponents and went to a split decision in his first Road to UFC fight.

I'm going with the more experienced fighter here in Hernandez, as he has been historically durable and will be able to take the fight late, which will give him the advantage.

Prediction: Hernandez by Decision

## Lone'er Kavanagh -357 vs. Jose Ochoa +275

A highly touted prospect makes their UFC debut here at Flyweight. Lone'er Kavanagh is a highly touted prospect coming off an impressive win on Dana White's Contender Series, where he scored a highlight knockout to prove his Cage Warriors success was no fluke. Jose Ochoa is a pure finisher, with all seven of his pro fights ending in him finishing his opponents, six of them by knockout, although with that, he has never seen a third round or truly been tested in a fight yet.

Kavanagh should get this one done, as although Ochoa has proven dangerous, he has yet to do so against anyone nearly as experienced as Kavanagh. 

Prediction: Kavanagh by 3rd Round KO

## Long Xiao -122 vs. Quang Le +100

Bantamweights, each looking for their first UFC victory, go head-to-head in this one. Long Xiao is a fun fighter with a good chin who is willing to exchange punches recklessly, which he has gotten away with against the level of competition he has been competing, although when facing UFC caliber opposition like Cristian Quinonez or Chang Ho Lee, he has lost. Quang Le got a tough first assignment in the UFC against Chris Guttierez after coming up through the LFA, where he competed with and had success against solid competition, winning all seven fights with the promotion with his strong striking and submission skills.

I'll go with Le here as he has been tested against much tougher competition throughout his career, and I also feel he has better striking defense while both have power.

Prediction: Le by 3rd Round TKO

## Maheshate Hayisaer -204 vs. Nikolas Motta +165

Veteran strikers open the card here at Lightweight. Maheshate Hayisaer is a solid boxer with a powerful counter right hand, and he showed off with his win over Steve Garcia, which has aged well. Nikolas Motta is a tough striker coming off a big upset where he looked fantastic against Tom Nolan, although his wrestling is not very good, as Trey Ogden was able to hold him down with ease.

I lean toward Motta here, as his wrestling has been his weak point, and Hayisaer won't take advantage of that while being the lower-volume striker. Give me the underdog in a close fight where either man can land a knockout blow at any point.

Prediction: Motta by 2nd Round KO

UFC Fight Night: Yan vs. Figueiredo Odds Breakdown

It was all Jon Jones from start to finish in the UFC 309 Main Event as the Heavyweight Champion defended his title with a knockout victory over Stipe Miocic.

## Result: Jon Jones def. Stipe Miocic via 3rd Round TKO (4:29)

The first round saw Jones land a nice trip and follow up with devastating ground and pound that Miocic seemingly had no answer for. The second saw Jones control the striking with nasty body kicks and solid boxing. The third round saw more domination from Jones until he landed a beautiful spinning kick to the body, sending Miocic crumbling to the ground to end the fight.


>"If everything goes right, maybe we'll give you guys what you want to see" - Jon Jones

What do you think should be next for Jones? Let us know in the comments!

Jon Jones Dominates Stipe Miocic to Defend Title at UFC 309

It was a five-round battle, but Charles Oliveira came out on top again in the end, earning a unanimous decision win over Michael Chandler in the UFC 309 Co-Main Event.

## Result: Charles Oliveira def. Michael Chandler via Unanimous Decision (49-46, 49-46, 49-45)

The first four rounds were almost all Oliveira, as his grappling attack was just too much for Chandler, who was narrowly avoiding submissions the entire fight. The fifth round saw Chandler land a huge shot that wobbled Oliveira badly and nearly finished him with some ground and pound, although Oliveira survived to see the final bell.


>"He hits really hard" - Charles Oliveira

What did you think of the fight? Let us know in the comments!

Charles Oliveira Survives Late Scare to Win Decision at UFC 309

Bo Nickal took a big step up in competition when he took on Paul Craig on the UFC 309 main card, and despite having to go the distance for the first time in his career, he got the win to remain undefeated.

## Result: Bo Nickal def. Paul Craig via Unanimous Decision (30-27 x 3)

Surprisingly, the fight was a striking match between the two grapplers, with Nickal swinging a big overhand and blasting low kicks. After three somewhat competitive rounds, Nickal was given a unanimous decision, winning all three rounds on every card.


>"I felt incredible tonight" - Bo Nickal

What did you think of the performance of the undefeated prospect? Let us know in the comments!

Bo Nickal Wins Decision Over Paul Craig at UFC 309

The UFC returns to the iconic Madison Square Garden in New York City for the annual PPV with this year's edition headlined by a Heavyweight battle years in the making between champion Jon Jones and former champion Stipe Miocic. Also on the card is a rematch between former Lightweight champion Charles Oliveira and the always-exciting Michael Chandler! I went over those matchups and the rest of this stacked card to give my predictions and best bets, so let's get into it.

**Odds provided by DuelBits accurate as of 11/13/2024**

## Jon Jones -625 vs. Stipe Miocic +440

Two legends who have been on a collision course for many years will finally meet here for the Heavyweight title. Jon Jones has a reputation as the greatest of all time, and for a reason, he has a near-flawless game with crafty striking and dominant wrestling, although he is off yet another long layoff, which hasn't seemed to be much of an issue for him in the past. Stipe Miocic is back after a very long layoff since his brutal knockout loss to Francis Ngannou in their rematch. Still, when he was active, he was a very skilled boxer with a solid ground game that helped him win and defend the Heavyweight title, a record three times before winning it back and defending it another time.

I can't go against Jones here, as he should have a speed advantage on the feet and a wrestling edge. He also looks to have settled into his frame at this weight even more over the time off.

Prediction: Jones by Decision

## Charles Oliveira -256 vs. Michael Chandler +205

Two of the most exciting fighters on the roster face off for the second time in the Lightweight co-main event. Charles Oliveira is one of the most dangerous finishers the sport has ever seen, with world-class jiu-jitsu and knockout power that he displayed the first time these two fought when he landed a left hook and finished Chandler in the second round. Michael Chandler is a stocky and powerful wrestler with massive power in all his limbs, although he has been off for several years since his loss to Dustin Poirier.

The price makes it very tempting to pick Chandler, with their last matchup being lined very closely; however, factoring in Chandler's layoff and the strong recent form of Oliveira, I will pick a repeat of the first fight.

Prediction: Oliveira by 3rd Round Submission

## Bo Nickal -1111 vs. Paul Craig +680

One of the biggest prospects in the sport takes a massive step against a tricky veteran in this Middleweight clash. Bo Nickal looks to continue his rapid ascent through the ranks as the highly credentialed collegiate wrestler has finished each of his three UFC opponents with a mix of knockouts and submissions. Paul Craig has always been a very dangerous submission grappler with signature wins over Magomed Ankalaev and Jamahal Hill, among many other Light Heavyweight killers.

I'll pick Nickal here despite the odds being completely unplayable straight. His submission prop may have some value as that is how he earns most of his wins, and despite Craig's grappling background, he has been submitted several times.

Prediction: Nickal by 2nd Round Submission

## Karine Silva -263 vs. Viviane Araujo +210

A fast finisher who is unbeaten in the UFC takes on her toughest test yet here at Flyweight. Karine Silva has had a perfect four-fight start to the UFC, with three finishes in those wins, showing submission skills that this division has rarely seen. Viviane Araujo is a veteran who has fought many of the best in the division, although her late results have been very lackluster, with her clearly being a step behind the division's best at this stage in her career.

I'm picking Silva here as she has shown serious potential, while Araujo has seen her best days. Silva also holds the finishing upside, with Araujo being very little of a threat to end the fight.

Prediction: Silva by Decision

## Mauricio Ruffy -909 vs. James Llontop +560

This is a short-notice clash between exciting Lightweight strikers. Mauricio Ruffy is another fighting nerd who has caught the attention of many since his debut win over Jamie Mullarkey, where he landed many flashy strikes on his way to an early knockout win over the veteran. James Llontop enters this having lost his first two UFC fights, although, in his last performance, he showed his striking skills going to a close decision with the very skilled Viacheslav Borshchev.

This price is insane, so I feel like I have to pick Llontop, as there is no way I see Ruffy as a fighter with the skills to warrant this type of price, even against a short-notice opponent.

Prediction: Llontop by 2nd Round TKO

## Jonathan Martinez +112 vs. Marcus McGhee -137

Bantamweights on the rise go head to head, looking to move up in the rankings. Jonathan Martinez is a skilled striker with deadly leg kicks that have finished several UFC opponents, although when opponents can get inside, like Jose Aldo and Davey Grant, he can struggle. Marcus McGhee is a fast-paced brawler who has burst onto the scene, finishing his first three UFC fights inside two rounds with a mix of his relentless striking and opportunistic submission game.

I lean towards McGhee as he continually pushes his way inside, which could cause Martinez problems. However, Martinez is a much more experienced fighter with wins over higher-level opponents.

Prediction: McGhee by Decision

## Chris Weidman +101 vs. Eryk Anders -123

A former champion returns against a fellow veteran here at Middleweight. Chris Weidman is a gritty wrestler who worked hard to return from his gruesome leg injury several years ago. Eryk Anders is a tough veteran who has ground out some tough wins, including his last fight, where he came back against Jamie Pickett.

I'll go with Weidman as his wrestling is still good enough that he will have an advantage or, at the very least, be able to nullify Anders there, and the striking is close, but I give Weidman the edge after seeing Anders dropped in his last fight.

Prediction: Weidman by Decision

## Jim Miller +142 vs. Damon Jackson -175

Battle-tested Lightweights collide in this fun prelim clash. Jim Miller is one of the most experienced mixed martial artists alive, and he is still going strong, with this being his third fight of the year after two wars with Gabriel Benitez and Bobby Green, where he showed his well-rounded skill set and toughness. Damon Jackson moves up in weight here after losing three of his last four, showing solid grappling and decent volume striking, although little power.

I like Miller as the underdog in this one as I don't believe the move up in weight will help Jackson, who holds no clear advantages over Miller. 

Prediction: Miller by Decision

## Roberto Romero +650 vs. David Onama -1111

One of a few short-notice bouts goes down here at Featherweight. Roberto Romero steps in for his UFC debut here, having won three of his last four, including a nasty submission in his last fight. David Onama is a deadly striker who is very big for the division and showed a lot of improvement in his ground game against Jonathan Pearce in his last fight.

I'm picking Onama, but this one is an easy pass from a betting perspective as he has been put into tough grappling positions against guys like Garrett Armfield, which makes me hesitate about his skill set, especially at this price.

Prediction: Onama by 1st Round KO

## Marcin Tybura -149 vs. Jhonata Diniz +121

A dangerous newcomer on the rise meets a consistent veteran in this Heavyweight prelim. Marcin Tybura is a solid veteran who, somewhat surprisingly, had three straight fights that ended in the first round, which is interesting to me as I see his style is more of a grinding type rather than a finisher, as he has shown in his wins over Alexandr Romanov and Blagoy Ivanov. Jhonata Diniz is a dangerous striker who gets his big fight here after a late pullout from Derrick Lewis weeks ago, although his wrestling game is a real concern, as Austen Lane was able to control him for a round.

Tybura has an obvious path here if he can get this fight to the ground early, which he likely can, as Diniz has shown little to no ability to defend against a grappling attack the level of Tybura's.

Prediction: Tybura by 1st Round Submission

## Mickey Gall -139 vs. Ramiz Brahimaj +113

Welterweight grapplers square off here, looking to get back in the win column. Mickey Gall has been a grappler over most of his career, although after returning from injury against Bassil Hafez, he opted for a striking match where he showed some decent striking skills although some deficiencies on defense. Ramiz Brahimaj is a submission specialist coming into this after a terrible showing against Themba Gorimbo after returning from a scary injury that may have taken a lot out of him.

I like Gall here as he has the skills to match or beat Brahimaj on the ground and will be the better striker coming off a far more encouraging performance.

Prediction: Gall by Decision (Best Bet)

## Oban Elliott -256 vs. Bassil Hafez +205

Welterweights looking to establish their place in the division face off in this one. Oban Elliot enters this one having won his first two UFC fights, showing clear improvement from one win to the next, with his most recent performance being a very impressive win over Preston Parsons, where he dominated the striking for three rounds. Bassil Hafez is known for his gritty, short-notice war with Jack Della Maddalena, where he showed his wrestling and toughness, but he also has power and solid boxing, as he showed in his win over Mickey Gall earlier this year.

I'll go with Elliott here, although I don't have much confidence at this price as he will have the technical advantage; however, the punching power of Hafez and the image of Elliott hurt badly on Dana White's Contender Series gives me a lot of hesitation.

Prediction: Elliott by Decision

UFC 309 Odds Breakdown

The UFC is going up north this weekend with a fight night card from Rogers Place in Edmonton, Alberta, headlined by former Flyweight Champion Brandon Moreno taking on streaking contender Amir Albazi. I gave my predictions and best bets for that matchup and every other fight on the card so lets get into it.

**Odds provided by Duelbits accurate as of 11/1/2024**

## Brandon Moreno -169 vs. Amir Albazi +137

Fan favorite and former Flyweight champion takes on a rising contender in this fantastic main event. Brandon Moreno returns from a short break after his close loss to Brandon Royval earlier this year; he is a well-rounded fighter with solid boxing and a granite chin that has helped him claim UFC gold multiple times. Amir Albazi also returns from a layoff, although his was due to health issues after his controversial win over Kai Kara-France; he is a strong grappler with decent striking that features sneaky power.

I'll pick Albazi here as I see this being a very close fight on the scorecards, with the grappling of Albazi controlling some rounds and the striking of Moreno taking others, so I'll pick the underdog. However, I can't bet on him because I am concerned about his form coming off a severe injury.

Prediction: Albazi by Split-Decision

## Rose Namajunas +110 vs. Erin Blanchfield -135

A former champion and a rising star face off in the Flyweight co-main event. Rose Namajunas continues her run up in weight here after back-to-back wins over Amanda Ribas and Tracy Cortez; she won the Strawweight title twice with her powerful and technical striking, although she also has a solid wrestling attack. Erin Blanchfield returns after her first UFC loss this year, where Manon Fiorot outstruck her in a fight where she struggled to get her usually dominant wrestling game going.

I lean towards Blanchfield here as she is the much younger fighter, making her more likely to improve, and many have forgotten how dominant she has looked at times after her loss to a very good Manon Fiorot.

Prediction: Blanchfield by Decision

## Derrick Lewis +137 vs. Jhonata Diniz -169

Knockout punchers will throw down in this must-see Heavyweight clash. Derrick Lewis is the knockout king with the most in UFC history, showing his insane power, which has often made up for a lack of volume or technique throughout his career. Jhonata Diniz comes into this one undefeated in MMA with a kickboxing background that he has shown by finishing seven of his eight wins by knockout, although Austen Lane was able to have success wrestling against him.

I'll take the younger, less damaged guy in Diniz here, although if Lewis goes in with a wrestling-heavy game plan, I genuinely believe he can dominate Diniz there.

Prediction: Diniz by 1st Round KO

## Caio Machado -161 vs. Brendson Ribeiro +130

Light Heavyweights both badly in need of a win battle it out here. Caio Machado is a decently athletic striker who moves down in weight for this one after dropping his first few UFC fights. Brendson Ribeiro proved to be a dangerous finisher outside of the UFC, with all fifteen of his wins coming inside the distance, although that has yet to translate to UFC success, with him having lost his first two fights with the promotion.

I lean towards Machado as he may have more success at this weight, having faced much bigger opponents, although I have no interest in betting on this matchup.

Prediction: Machado by Decision

## Marc-Andre Barriault -208 vs. Dustin Stoltzfus +165

Gritty Middleweights will square off against one another in this one. Marc-Andre Barriault is a tough veteran with an in-your-face style that he uses to wear down his opponents. Dustin Stoltzfus is a solid grappler who is coming off a wild fight with Brunno Ferreira, where he took a lot of damage.

I'll take Barriault here as I see him being better than Stoltzfus everywhere and separating himself as the fight goes on.

Prediction: Barriault by Decision

## Mike Malott -286 vs. Trevin Giles +220

Welterweight finishers collide, looking to get back on track. Mike Malott is a dangerous finisher with a nasty submission game and knockout power that he showed against Mickey Gall, although his cardio is a major concern, with Neil Magny finishing him late his last time out. Trevin Giles is an experienced fighter with a strong jab, although his durability has become an issue, with him being finished in all six of his losses.

I like Malott to get this one done inside the distance as he will be the much better grappler, as he proved by beating Giles in a grappling match, and he could land a big shot in the striking to get a finish there as well.

Prediction: Malott by 1st Round Submission (Best Bet)

## Aiemann Zahabi -137 vs. Pedro Munhoz +112

Veteran Bantamweights will go head to head here in this fun matchup. Aiemann Zahabi comes into this on a four-fight win streak after losing his first two in the UFC, most recently showing his effective counter-striking game in a win over highly touted Javid Basharat. Pedro Munhoz is a durable veteran with a well-rounded game featuring a solid calf kick and guillotine.

I'll go with Munhoz here as, despite his rough stretch, he has proven he can still hang with the big names in the division, while Zahabi is not quite on that level, with him having only beaten low-level or unproven competition.

Prediction: Munhoz by Decision

## Charles Jourdain -133 vs. Victor Henry +109

High-pace strikers square off here at Bantamweight. Charles Jourdain moves down in weight for this one, which could benefit him as he will be very big for the weight and was already powerful at Featherweight, so if he carries the power and cardio down, I like the move. Victor Henry is a durable and high-output veteran with a solid submission game, although he lacks much power in his strikes, allowing opponents to hang around.

This will be a close fight, but I lean toward Jourdain as he is the more technical and powerful guy who can handle Henry's pressure and cardio.

Prediction: Jourdain by Decision

## Serhiy Sidey -147 vs. Garrett Armfield +119

Young Bantamweights look to make a name for themselves in this prelim clash. Serhiy Sidey returns here after a wild debut where he lost a close and controversial decision to Ramon Taveras in a fight where he showed his heart and cardio by maintaining a high output after taking lots of damage. Garrett Armfield is a solid boxer with good power, although his submission defense and cardio are both questionable and cost him the fight against Brady Hiestand.

I lean towards Sidey here, with his size and cardio advantages playing a big factor, with him likely taking rounds two and three if the fight gets there.

Prediction: Sidey by 3rd Round TKO

## Chad Anheliger +160 vs. Cody Gibson -204

Veteran Bantamweights go head-to-head here early on the card. Chad Anheliger is a tough striker who has shown the ability to keep a solid pace and grind out fights over his UFC run. Cody Gibson is a long fighter for the weight with a very offensive game that includes good boxing and a solid submission attack, as he showed his last time out with a first-round finish of Brian Kelleher.

I like Gibson here as he can match the pace of Anheliger and use his length to win the striking with the option of mixing in the grappling as well.

Prediction: Gibson by Decision

## Jack Shore +245 vs. Youssef Zalal -313

Featherweights with a lot of potential will clash here to open the card. Jack Shore is a talented grappler, although he lacks much strength at this weight and can get beat up in the striking, as was the case against Ricky Simon and Joanderson Brito. Youssef Zalal has looked fantastic since returning to the UFC, showing a deadly submission attack and damaging striking in his two recent finish wins.

I'll pick Zalal here as the grappling could end up close enough to cancel out, and Zalal will have a big edge in the striking, where I see him doing much more damage.

Prediction: Zalal by 3rd Round TKO

UFC Fight Night: Moreno vs. Albazi Odds Breakdown

ROUNDHOUSE MMA

Did Khamzat Chimaev just steal a title shot away from Sean Strickland? That seems to be the overall theme amongst MMA fans following Chimaev's domination of Robert Whittaker on Saturday which took him just three minutes and 34 seconds. 

To get you up to speed, Sean Strickland defeated Paulo Costa back in June, and Dricus Du Plessis submitted Israel Adesanya in August. The two seemed on a collision course to meet again. Instead of taking on another contender, Strickland opted to wait for a title shot, which now may not look like the best idea. Recency bias is key in mixed martial arts, and Khamzat Chimaev may have just earned himself a crack at Dricus Du Plessis. 

So, what is next for Chimaev and Whittaker? Let's talk about it here. 

As I said previously, recency bias is crucial in mixed martial arts. Consider Dricus Du Plessis-Sean Strickland II cancelled. Khamzat Chimaev's win over Robert Whittaker was dominant and terrifying and gave the UFC and its fans enough ammunition to promote and build a fight between Du Plessis and Chimaev. Now 14-0, Chimaev is the boogeyman this Middleweight division needs, and if he can defeat Du Plessis and win the title, the UFC will have a megastar on their hands. 

In terms of Robert Whittaker, he suffered a major injury to his jaw during the fight. Hopefully, this doesn't keep him out of action too long, but when he can return, I'd like to see him booked against Sean Strickland. With the title shot going to Chimaev, Strickland will have paid the price for attempting to wait for a rematch with Du Plessis. Both men can quickly get back into the title picture with a win. 

Think Khamzat Chimaev and Robert Whittaker should fight someone else? Let us know in the comments. 

What's Next For Khamzat Chimaev and Robert Whittaker?

Shara "Bullet" Magomedov remained undefeated with a knockout win after a fun fight with Armen Petrosyan to open the UFC 308 main card.

Result: Shara Magomedov def. Armen Petrosyan via 2nd Round KO (4:52)
## 
The fight saw the two men kick each other's legs and trade boxing combos through a close first round, with Magomedov gaining momentum late. That momentum carried into round two, where Magomedov began to time his punches, landing big counter rights repeatedly. Near the end of round two, Magomedov missed on a spinning back fist but threw another back fist as he turned back around. The second strike connected and knocked Petrosyan down and out.


>"I smash Israel Adesanya" - Shara Magomedov

What did you think of Magomedov's performance? Let us know in the comments!

Shara Magomedov Scores Highlight Knockout at UFC 308

After an early knockdown made it seem like it wouldn't be his night, Lerone Murphy was able to rally late to win the last two rounds and take a decision over Dan Ige on the UFC 308 main card.

Result: Lerone Murphy def. Dan Ige via Unanimous Decision (29-28 x 3) 

The first round saw Ige come out very aggressive and use his big power to back Murphy up before landing a huge shot that sent Murphy to the floor and nearly had him finished. Murphy survived and used his striking at a distance to take a close second round and even up the fight going into the final frame. Ige was able to secure some top time, but with just over a minute left, Murphy reversed him and landed some big shots to steal momentum and eventually the fight.

"I want someone in that top ten" - Lerone Murphy

What did you think of Murphy's performance? Let us know in the comments!