AJ believes Pereira will knock out Gane, citing Pereira's pressure, hand speed, and left hook as key factors. He notes that Gane's evasive, cat-and-mouse style works against heavyweights but not against a world-class kickboxer like Pereira. AJ points out that Gane doesn't use his size aggressively, doesn't hit hard, and has folded in big spots (e.g., against Jones and Ngannou). He also mentions that Pereira's southpaw stance takes away the calf kick but that Pereira can still land body kicks and close the distance. AJ is confident Pereira will starch him.

AJ leans towards Pereira, noting that Pereira's leg kicks will slow Gane's lateral movement and his punch power is a huge difference maker. He acknowledges the odds are essentially even and that Gane could win, but favors Pereira.

AJ picks Pereira to knock out Gane, believing Gane's movement will slow as the fight progresses and Pereira's power and calf kicks will take over. He notes Gane's lack of power and that Pereira's chin and cardio improve at heavyweight. He expects Pereira to trap Gane and land a knockout in the second, third, or fourth round.

AJ picks Pereira to win by knockout, arguing that Gane's sticking-and-moving style will slow down as the fight progresses, allowing Pereira to trap him against the cage and land combinations. He highlights Pereira's superior boxing precision, leg kick threat, and durability at heavyweight, while questioning Gane's grappling and ability to avoid Pereira's power shots. AJ predicts a finish, possibly in the later rounds.

Angelo picks Ciryl Gane despite rooting for Pereira. He believes Gane's footwork and mobility will be too much for Pereira, who is defensively reckless and gets hit often. He notes that Pereira has been rocked before and that Gane is faster and bigger, and can out-technique him.

Despite being a vocal Alex Pereira fan, Angelo picks Ciryl Gane, citing Gane's size, speed, footwork, and technical striking. He doubts Pereira's power will translate to heavyweight and believes Gane is too fast and clean for Pereira to walk down and knock out. He notes he bet on Gane at -120.

Big Brady picks Ciryl Gane to win by decision. He argues that Gane has more ways to win: he can use footwork and speed to avoid Pereira's power, or use his size to grapple. Pereira's move to heavyweight is uncertain, while Gane is proven at the weight. He expects Gane to outpoint Pereira over five rounds unless Pereira lands a big shot.

Connor picks Gane but is hesitant, noting Gane's tendency to 'shit the bed' in big fights and his poor fundamentals from early training. He thinks the style matchup favors Gane, as Pereira struggles against long-range punchers like Jan Blachowicz. However, Connor acknowledges Pereira could win if he pressures Gane and makes him make bad decisions, but he trusts Gane's jab and size advantage.

Daniel Levi admits he is historically bad at predicting Alex Pereira fights, but he picks Pereira to win by knockout. He acknowledges Gane's speed, movement, and athleticism could give Pereira early issues, but Pereira's ability to make adjustments and find the left hook in championship rounds is key. Levi questions Gane's chin and tendency to choke in big fights, referencing the Ngannou and Jones losses. He expects Pereira to eventually land the patented left hook and become the first three-division champion.

The host slightly leans towards Gane because he is proven at heavyweight, has better cardio, and is the safe bet, but does not feel confident enough to bet. He notes Pereira's power and intangibles at heavyweight make it a pass.

Jacob picks Alex Pereira, arguing that Gane doesn't fight big and will back up. He believes Pereira will stalk him, land calf kicks, and have the bigger moments. He thinks Gane will try to run away and Pereira will either win a decision or knock him out.

Lucrative James picks Ciryl Gane to win via five-round decision, but with hesitation. He believes Gane's movement, jab, and volume will give him early rounds, but questions his durability and fight IQ in later rounds, especially given his history of dropping the ball in big title fights. He also considers the outdoor humidity as a potential factor that could affect Gane's footwork. He notes Pereira's calf kicks and comeback ability but ultimately trusts Gane's stylistic advantages.

The host sees this as an intriguing striking matchup and believes Gane's athleticism, speed, and technical striking edge will allow him to pick apart Pereira and win on the scorecards. He predicts Gane becomes interim heavyweight champion.

Gane is the superior technical striker with better speed and athleticism. He can point-fight and chip away at Pereira, who relies on landing a big left hook. Gane's chin is solid, and he has the cardio to maintain his pace. Pereira's power is a threat, but opportunities will be few. Expects Gane to win by decision.

The Guru picks Alex Pereira by TKO in round 3. He believes Pereira will use a low-kick heavy game plan to slow Gane, and that Gane's lead leg is vulnerable. He expects Gane to have success early with jabs and movement, but Pereira will build into the fight, eat shots, and eventually corner Gane against the cage for a ground-and-pound finish. He notes Gane's underrated chin but thinks Pereira's technical striking and power will be the difference.

Angelo picks Magomed Ankalaev, believing the rematch will be similar to the first fight. He argues that Alex Pereira's narrative about trusting his takedown defense and letting his hands go is flawed because Ankalaev almost knocked him out in the first fight. He also notes that defending takedowns is easier when that's all you focus on, and that Ankalaev now knows he can handle Pereira's power. He expects Ankalaev to win more dominantly.

Big Brady is concerned about Pereira's age (38), potential lack of focus due to newfound wealth and lifestyle, and recent performances. He believes Ankalaev is hungrier and more dedicated. He notes that Ankalaev almost finished Pereira in the second round of their first fight and that Pereira has been hurt multiple times. He predicts Ankalaev wins by third-round knockout.

Connor picks Ankalaev, agreeing with Zane that Pereira's age and the way Ankalaev pressured him in the first fight are key factors. He emphasizes that Ankalaev's ability to make clutch decisions and prevent big swings, combined with Pereira's declining willingness to take risks, makes Ankalaev the likely winner. Connor also notes that Pereira's back-foot game is not strong enough to counter Ankalaev's pressure.

The host expects a more violent and aggressive Pereira, which could work for or against him. He likes the under 3.5 rounds and believes Ankalaev will catch a reckless Pereira and knock him out, replicating the previous fight's success.

The MMA Guru picks Magomed Ankalaev, believing his wrestling, boxing, and mental focus will be key. He notes Pereira's difficulty with southpaws and the likelihood that Ankalaev improves his takedown efficiency. He predicts a finish in the championship rounds.

Connor picks Pereira because he trusts Pereira's durability and defensive instincts, and believes Pereira's pressure and willingness to punch in the pocket will force Ankalaev out of his comfort zone. He notes that Ankalaev has a history of complacency and inconsistency, and that Pereira's jab and combination punching are poison for counter punchers like Ankalaev. Connor acknowledges that Ankalaev has the tools to win but is not trustworthy.

Lucrative James believes Ankalaev's wrestling advantage is the key factor. He notes that Ankalaev has been wrestling since childhood, while Pereira's grappling is a clear weakness. He argues that if Ankalaev uses his wrestling consistently, he will dominate from top position and win the fight. He also mentions that Pereira's hype has driven the line to a pick'em, but he sees Ankalaev as the rightful favorite. He acknowledges Pereira's elite striking and power, but thinks Ankalaev's low-paced kickboxing style minimizes danger and allows him to set up takedowns.

Angelo picks Alex Pereira to win, citing his power, size, and reach advantage. He acknowledges Khalil Rountree is the most dangerous striker Pereira has faced, with lightning speed and power, but believes Pereira's kickboxing pedigree and preparation at elevation will prevail. He notes the line is juiced at -550 and does not recommend a bet at those odds, but is confident in the win. He also expresses a dream scenario of Pereira moving up to heavyweight.

Big Brady picks Alex Pereira to win by second-round knockout, noting that Rountree has said he won't wrestle and will strike. He believes Pereira is the better striker and has been dominant in title defenses. He acknowledges Rountree hits hard and Pereira has been knocked out before, but still favors Pereira strongly.

Cody picks Pereira because of his superior striking credentials, length, and technique. He notes that Rountree has a puncher's chance but lacks wrestling, and Pereira's path to victory is clear. He also mentions that Pereira could mix in takedowns but expects a standup fight.

Connor also picks Pereira, agreeing with Zane's assessment. He emphasizes that Rountree's best chance is a counter right hook from southpaw, but Pereira is defensively aware and can lure Rountree into coming forward. Connor notes that Pereira's low kicks and jab will force Rountree to change his approach, and that Rountree's clinch is powerful but Pereira is the bigger clinch fighter.

Daniel Vreeland picks Alex Pereira. He notes that Pereira is a kickboxing champion who has beaten elite competition. He believes Rountree cannot out-technique Pereira and that his only path to victory is a power shot landing. Vreeland thinks Pereira will pick Rountree apart and likely finish him early, suggesting the under 1.5 rounds at +140 is a good bet.

Daniel Vreeland believes Alex Pereira's left hook and calf kicks will be too much for Khalil Rountree Jr. He notes that Rountree swings wide and wild, leaving openings for Pereira's counter left hook. Vreeland also points out Pereira's black belt in Jiu-Jitsu and his takedown against Adesanya as advantages. He acknowledges Rountree's power but thinks Pereira's experience against top competition will prevail.

Jeff Fox picks Alex Pereira. He notes that this is a good style matchup for Pereira, as Rountree has no way to make it a grappling fight. Fox believes Pereira will win a kickboxing fight and likely knock Rountree out. He appreciates that Pereira takes any fight and finishes opponents.

The host thinks the line is a bit wide considering the fight takes place in the striking realm and Rountree has knockout power. However, he leans with Pereira's technical advantages, expecting him to keep the fight at distance and counter effectively, eventually landing a big shot (likely his left hook) to finish Rountree within two rounds.

Paul picks Pereira, acknowledging Rountree's power and improvements but emphasizing Pereira's elite striking and the fact that Rountree has never attempted a takedown in the UFC. He believes Pereira's experience and technique will prevail.

The MMA Guru picks Alex Pereira to KO Khalil Rountree Jr. in the first round. He dismisses Rountree's hype, noting his close fight with Anthony Smith and robbery win over Jacoby. He believes Pereira's composure, low kicks, and body work will be too much, and that Rountree will get caught with a left hook. He also mentions Pereira's recent injury revelation but still expects a dominant win.

Cody picks Pereira to win again, citing his cleaner striking and the leg kick issue that Procházka couldn't solve in the first fight. He notes that Procházka's karate stance leaves his lead leg exposed, and Pereira's heavy leg kicks will be a problem. Cody also mentions that Pereira has improved his takedown defense since the first fight, and that Procházka's tendency to brawl plays into Pereira's hands. He acknowledges that Procházka is a madman who never stops coming, but believes Pereira's refined skills will prevail.

Daniel Vreeland picks Alex Pereira, stating that Procházka's best path is creating chaos, but Pereira has the ability to navigate chaos and not engage with it while still taking advantage. He notes that Pereira is a more controlled and technical striker than Procházka, and he took care of him in the first fight. Vreeland believes Pereira will be almost impossible to beat unless someone comes with a heavy wrestling plan or is a striking savant like Izzy.

Daniel views the fight as a 50/50 coin flip, but likes the plus money on Procházka. He believes Procházka can create his 'perfect storm' and return the favor after being stopped early in the first fight. He notes that Procházka was not truly out and that the rematch is justified. He expects someone to hit the deck and hopes Procházka can avoid accumulated damage and the left hook.

Jeff Fox picks Alex Pereira, stating he usually takes the winner of the first fight in a rematch. He notes that both fighters are dangerous on the feet, but Pereira is a more controlled version of Procházka and way more technical. Fox believes Pereira can keep himself safer while still being dangerous, and he expects Pereira to do the same as the first fight.

The host does not discuss this fight at all in the transcript. The entire podcast is focused on the Conor McGregor vs Michael Chandler fight, which is not on the provided fight card. Therefore, no pick is made for this fight.

The host acknowledges this is a very close fight, calling it a coin flip. He gives a slight edge to Pereira because he is the technically better striker, citing the calf kick and check left hook. However, he notes Procházka is just as capable of knocking Pereira out and that the underdog line at +130 is tempting. He ultimately leans Pereira by knockout but says he will likely not bet the fight, possibly taking the under 2.5 rounds.

Paul picks Pereira, emphasizing that he already beat Procházka once and is the cleaner striker. He notes that Procházka's leg kicks were a major issue in the first fight and that Pereira's left hook is deadly. Paul also points out that Procházka's takedown in the first fight was a result of Pereira grabbing a guillotine, a mistake he likely won't repeat. He expects a wild brawl but believes Pereira will finish Procházka again, possibly by knockout.

Angelo picks Alex Pereira, citing his power and physicality. He notes Hill may be the better striker and Pereira gets hit a lot, but Hill's layoff and injury recovery are concerns. He mentions Hill looked out of shape recently and may not be fully prepared. He acknowledges it wouldn't surprise him if Hill wins.

Cody acknowledges this is a flip-flop fight between Hill's volume and Pereira's power. He leans Pereira because he trusts Pereira's preparation and shape, while Hill is coming off a long layoff with an Achilles injury and doesn't appear to be in peak condition. Cody notes Hill has never been knocked down and has a cast iron chin, but Pereira's left hook is a constant threat. He also mentions Hill has zero takedowns in the UFC and Glover Teixeira is in Pereira's corner, providing familiarity. Ultimately, he goes with the power over volume, but admits it could go either way.

Daniel Vreeland picks Alex Pereira, citing that the line is great value. He notes that Pereira is a world-class kickboxer and that Hill's best kickboxing opponent might be Johnny Walker. He also mentions that Hill has been injured for over a year and may not be sharp. He believes Pereira's technical striking will be too much for Hill.

Daniel Vreeland picks Jamahal Hill to win by knockout, citing Hill's superior power and speed, his ability to switch stances to negate Pereira's calf kicks, and his proven durability. He notes that Pereira gets hit often and has been knocked out before, while Hill has never been rocked on the feet. Vreeland also mentions Hill's ground game as a potential factor, but expects a standup war.

Jeff Fox picks Alex Pereira, agreeing with Vreeland. He notes that Hill was not cleared to train until February, which is alarming. He also mentions that Hill seems convinced he can box with Pereira, but his past fights don't show that level of striking. He believes Pereira's technical striking will be the difference.

Pereira is the technically better fighter. Hill is coming back too early from injury and took the fight for the big stage, which will cause bad decisions. Pereira's striking will take advantage and land the check left hook, putting Hill out within two or three rounds.

Paul agrees with Cody, laying the chalk with Pereira. He notes the strange narrative of Hill immediately contacting Israel Adesanya for advice, which suggests short-notice preparation. Paul points out that throwing volume leaves you open for counters, and Pereira can take your head off at any point. He also mentions Hill has never been hurt or knocked down, so Pereira needs to land the money shot. Paul sees the fight as super competitive but favors Pereira's power and preparation.

Angelo picks Pereira after flipping from Procházka. He acknowledges Procházka's ability to win ugly fights but believes Pereira's world-class kickboxing and left hook will be too much for the hittable Procházka. He falls into the 'easy narrative' but thinks it's correct.

Big Brady picks Alex Pereira to win by first-round knockout. He criticizes Procházka's non-existent striking defense, noting he blocks punches with his face and has been rocked by lesser hitters. He believes Pereira's left hook will be too much for Procházka to handle. Brady acknowledges Procházka's toughness but thinks Pereira's power is a different level.

Cody picks Pereira, citing Procházka's long layoff and shoulder surgery as major concerns. He notes Procházka is a defensive liability who gets hit often, while Pereira is more polished and has been improving under Glover Teixeira. He believes Pereira's kickboxing pedigree and second fight at 205 will be key, though he acknowledges Procházka's power and volume could cause problems.

James passes on this fight entirely, calling it a massive pass due to extreme volatility. He notes both fighters have knockout power and questionable chins, and Procházka brings unorthodox strikes that Pereira hasn't faced. He leans slightly toward Pereira based on technical striking but admits he doesn't know and considers it 50/50. He mentions Procházka may have better recovery and durability.

Pereira's disciplined technical striking will be the difference against the wild and reckless Procházka. He will stuff takedowns and keep the fight on the feet. Procházka's power is a concern but Pereira's check left hook is nasty. Expects Pereira to open up a knockout victory and become the light heavyweight champion.

Paul agrees with Cody, emphasizing that Pereira's first move up to 205 was tough but now he's had time to fill out his frame. He thinks Pereira's grappling under Glover is improving and that the takedown threat from Procházka is minimal. He sees Pereira's precision striking as the difference, eventually clipping Procházka.

Angelo picks Alex Pereira but with hesitation, acknowledging that Jan's takedowns are a threat. He believes Pereira is the more technical striker with possibly more power, and that he will be fine defending takedowns or getting back up. However, he is worried about Pereira's chin after being knocked out three months ago. He is not betting on this fight but will look at props like most significant strikes.

Big Brady picks Jan Błachowicz to win by second-round submission. He emphasizes Błachowicz's grappling advantage, noting he took down Israel Adesanya and controlled him. He criticizes Pereira's ground game, which looked poor against Adesanya. He hopes Błachowicz fights smart and uses wrestling, but is not 100% sure he will. If he does, it's an easy win.

Cody picks Błachowicz based on the takedown threat, noting Pereira's mediocre takedown defense and Błachowicz's success against Israel Adesanya by taking him down. He believes if Błachowicz gets top control, Pereira won't get up. He mentions the over 2 takedowns prop for Błachowicz. He hasn't bet it but is confident in the pick.

James picks Jan but with low confidence, citing volatility from Pereira's weight jump, recent knockout loss, and Jan's age. He thinks Jan is an underrated striker with good leg kicks and can compete on the feet, but he also notes Jan is hittable with the left hook. He believes Jan's path to victory includes takedowns, but he cannot guarantee Jan will wrestle.

Blachowicz's underrated striking and ability to take the fight to the ground will be the difference. He can survive Pereira's power and find his way into the pocket to grind him out. Pereira hasn't faced someone of Blachowicz's size and grappling. I'm leaning Blachowicz by submission late, but not a lot of conviction.