Angelo picks Khamzat Chimaev, citing his dominant wrestling and control. He believes Strickland's takedown defense (76%) won't be enough against Chimaev's elite level. He notes Chimaev's cardio looked fine in his 25-minute fight with DDP. He expects Chimaev to get takedowns and control each round, similar to Islam vs JDM. He mentions Strickland's conflicting training stories and thinks Chimaev's wrestling is too much.

Angelo is very confident in Khamzat Chimaev, stating that nobody has stood up on him and that his wrestling is too good. He dismisses arguments about Chimaev getting tired in the Gilbert Burns fight, noting it was at a different weight class years ago. He expects a dominant, possibly boring fight.

Big Brady confidently picks Khamzat Chimaev, expecting him to wrestle and grapple. He notes Strickland's win over Fluffy Hernandez had an asterisk due to a poor game plan. Brady believes Chimaev will take down Strickland, take his back, and finish with a submission in the first round. He acknowledges Strickland could make it interesting if he survives the early rounds, but expects an early finish.

Cody picks Chimaev, citing his superior wrestling and ability to take Strickland down early. He notes Chimaev's improved pacing and control, as seen against Whittaker and Du Plessis, and believes he can neutralize Strickland's jab and volume striking. Cody expects Chimaev to win by decision, as Strickland is durable and hard to submit, but he also mentions live betting Strickland in later rounds if Chimaev tires.

Connor agrees with Zane, emphasizing Chimaev's wrestling is the best in MMA history as a takedown artist, better than Khabib or Islam. He notes Strickland's mental fragility when pressured, and that Chimaev can wrestle for five rounds as shown against Dricus. Connor sees Strickland's only path as winning late rounds if Chimaev gasses, but doubts Strickland can rally convincingly.

Daniel believes Chimaev's relentless wrestling and takedown pressure will be too much for Strickland, especially in the early rounds. He notes that Chimaev is a different level of wrestler compared to Fluffy Hernandez, who only attempted one takedown against Strickland. Daniel expects Chimaev to get takedowns and wear Strickland down, though he acknowledges Strickland has a chance if it goes to championship rounds.

The host does not make a pre-fight bet on this fight. He considers Chimaev unplayable at 1.17 odds and notes that Strickland is a live underdog but has a tendency to be passive. He prefers to live bet this fight, watching how much energy Chimaev exerts early. He mentions that if Strickland starts fast and makes Chimaev work, he could win rounds 4 and 5, but he doesn't commit to a pick.

Predicted method: Submission Round 2. Chimaev remains undefeated with dominant wins over top competition, including a submission of Robert Whittaker and a decision over Dricus du Plessis. His relentless wrestling and 5.29 takedowns per round will be a nightmare for Strickland, who has only 76% takedown defense and struggles against pressure grapplers. Strickland's high-volume striking (6.04 SLpM) is effective, but he lacks the power to deter Chimaev's takedowns. Expect Chimaev to secure takedowns early, control the fight, and eventually find a submission or win a clear decision.

Jacob is confident in Chimaev, expecting him to be more aggressive now that he has the belt. He thinks Chimaev will finish Strickland early, similar to the Whittaker fight, and that Strickland's scrambling will lead to mistakes. He notes that Chimaev was tapping Strickland in training.

Lucrative James believes Khamzat Chimaev is a generational talent and one of the greatest fighters ever. He argues that Chimaev's early storm of wrestling and grappling will be too much for Strickland, who has been tapped by Chimaev in training. He predicts Chimaev will submit Strickland in round two, as Strickland's better takedown defense will lead to giving up his back. He notes Strickland's elite anti-grappling but thinks Chimaev's skill set is superior.

The host picks Chimaev by submission in rounds 1-2, citing his grappling dominance and Strickland's defensive grappling vulnerabilities. He believes Chimaev will come out hungry and get an early takedown, eventually forcing a tap. He notes that if it goes later, Strickland could scramble, but expects an early finish.

Paul leans Chimaev but is not heavily invested. He thinks Chimaev's wrestling and pressure will be too much, but he also sees value in late-round Strickland props if Chimaev fades. He mentions Chimaev's health issues and training changes, but ultimately expects a Chimaev win, possibly by submission.

The MMA Guru picks Khamzat Chimaev despite wanting Strickland to win. He believes Chimaev's wrestling is on another level, citing his dominant performance against Du Plessis. He notes Strickland's takedown defense is good but not elite, and Chimaev's ability to secure back position and threaten chokes will be decisive. He predicts a submission by d'arce choke in the first or second round.

Angelo picks Anthony Hernandez, drawing parallels to DDP's wins over Strickland via relentless forward pressure. He believes Hernandez's cardio and takedown volume will prevent Strickland from settling into his jab-heavy style. He respects Strickland's resume but thinks the matchup favors Hernandez.

Big Brady picks Anthony 'Fluffy' Hernandez to defeat Sean Strickland. He notes that Strickland has not wrestled in years, landing only two takedowns in his last several five-round fights, and that Fluffy's relentless takedown pressure will exhaust Strickland for the first time. He predicts Fluffy will land 10-15 takedowns over 25 minutes and win a decision, though a late finish wouldn't surprise him. He emphasizes Fluffy's cardio and ability to repeatedly take down opponents.

Cody believes Strickland hasn't shown knockout power and that Hernandez's cardio and grappling will be too much. He notes Strickland's tendency to abandon game plans and thinks Hernandez wins by decision or late finish. He also mentions that Strickland's split decision history makes him unreliable as a favorite.

Connor picks Strickland because he believes Hernandez's pressure will be too slow to overcome Strickland's defensive jab and front kicks. He notes that Hernandez has never faced a sprawl-and-brawl type like Strickland, and that Strickland's takedown defense, while questionable, should hold up enough to win early rounds. He also points out that Strickland has only been finished twice by huge shots, which Hernandez is unlikely to land.

The host is torn on this fight. He acknowledges that all the value lies with Strickland as a +225 underdog, citing Hernandez's injury concerns and Strickland's elite cardio and takedown defense. However, he also notes that Strickland lacks finishing power and is passive at times, making a decision win difficult. He ultimately cannot decide whether to bet Strickland and passes on betting Hernandez due to the steep -290 price.

Lucrative James picks Fluffy Hernandez to win by decision, citing his relentless pace, pressure, and cardio. He notes that Strickland has all the tools to win but often makes poor decisions in the cage, as seen in his last fight against Du Plessis. James believes Hernandez's volume and grappling will overwhelm Strickland over five rounds, though he admits the betting value is on Strickland at plus money.

Hernandez is on an eight-fight winning streak with relentless wrestling and improved durability. Strickland's takedown defense is good, but Hernandez's pace and ability to chain wrestle should wear him down. Strickland will have success on the feet, but Hernandez's grappling control and submission threats should win rounds. The over 4.5 rounds is also a strong play as both have great cardio.

Paul acknowledges Strickland's takedown defense and cardio but questions his motivation and age (turning 35). He thinks Hernandez's constant pressure and grappling will edge him on scorecards, and notes that Strickland's style leaves him at mercy of judges. He prefers to live bet Hernandez after the first round.

The MMA Guru picks Sean Strickland, believing his teep to the body and high output will be key. He notes Hernandez is often hurt to the body and that Strickland is difficult to hold down. He thinks Strickland's wrestling instincts and training with Chimaev and Ankalaev will help him stuff takedowns. He predicts a fourth or fifth round TKO.

Big Brady scored the first fight 3-2 for du Plessis and expects a similar competitive fight. He notes that Strickland fights the same way every time, with jabs and teeps, while du Plessis has the power and wrestling advantage. He thinks du Plessis will land the bigger shots and has all the finish upside. However, he believes the odds at -205 are too wide and expects a close decision. He picks du Plessis by decision.

Connor agrees with Zane, emphasizing that Dricus is the one likely to adjust. He notes that Strickland's internal struggles prevent him from changing his game. Connor also mentions that Dricus will not back down and will keep coming forward, which is key. He sees Strickland's win condition as a lucky punch or eye swelling, but considers it unlikely.

Daniel Levi discusses the rematch between Dricus du Plessis and Sean Strickland, noting that the first fight was a five-round split decision. He cites historical examples where rematches of close five-round fights often end sooner, such as Machida vs Shogun and Cerrone vs Henderson. However, he does not explicitly pick a winner, instead asking the audience who they have. He mentions that du Plessis has made opponents cry with his trash talk but does not commit to a prediction.

Strickland's pace and pressure will allow him to pick apart du Plessis and get ahead on the scorecards. His striking defense and durability are good enough to deal with du Plessis's power. Strickland may incorporate some grappling to stay safe, but ultimately wins in deep water by decision.

Angelo picks Sean Strickland because of his dependability and the Philly shell defense. He acknowledges Paulo Costa's power and cardio but believes Strickland's volume and durability will win a decision, especially in a five-round fight. He notes that Costa might try wrestling after seeing Dricus du Plessis take Strickland down, but still favors Strickland.

Big Brady likes Sean Strickland at 8,800 because it's a five-round fight, giving Strickland 25 minutes to rack up volume (6 significant strikes per minute). He thinks Strickland's pace will add up and he could even get a late finish. He also likes Paulo Costa in cash games for the same five-round volume, noting Costa's durability and potential takedowns. He sees Costa as a live dog but expects Strickland to win a decision or late finish.

Cody picks Strickland, highlighting his jab and reach advantage. He notes Strickland's durability and volume, and believes Costa's power is overrated (last KO of note was Uriah Hall in 2018). Cody expects Strickland to drown Costa with pressure and volume, possibly getting a late stoppage. He mentions Strickland's experience in five-round fights and Costa's lack thereof.

Daniel Vreeland also picks Costa, agreeing with Fox. He was initially concerned about the 25-minute fight but was reassured by Costa's performance against Whittaker. Vreeland notes Strickland won't grapple and Costa is a decent grappler anyway. He sees risk standing with Costa for 25 minutes but believes Costa's power and durability give him the edge.

Daniel notes that Costa can compete at this level but questions if he can win. He highlights Strickland's insane output and Philly shell, and expects Strickland to edge a decision with higher volume. He acknowledges either could get knocked out but leans Strickland.

Jeff Fox picks Paulo Costa at +200, citing that Strickland's five-round losses (to Jared Cannonier and Dricus du Plessis) came because opponents landed harder shots that judges value more. He believes Costa will land the bigger shots and notes Costa's strong performance against Robert Whittaker. Fox thinks Costa can take three rounds and possibly win a split decision, and he's not worried about Strickland wrestling.

The host believes Costa's power punching is the key to beating Strickland, who has struggled against power punchers. Costa's ability to land big shots over five rounds could lead to a knockout or sway judges with damage. The host notes Costa's recent activity and motivation, and sees value at +205, picking Costa by knockout.

Paul picks Strickland, emphasizing volume advantage. He notes Costa can land big shots but lacks volume; Strickland will put up 200+ significant strikes while Costa struggles to reach 100. He expects Strickland by decision or late stoppage, and mentions Strickland's reach advantage (76-inch reach vs Costa's 72-inch). He also notes Costa's poor body language and cardio in past fights.

Angelo leans du Plessis, believing he has more ways to win with power, wrestling, and improved cardio after nose surgery. He admits to underestimating both fighters in the past. He is unsure about betting and will monitor the line movement. He notes Strickland's incredible cardio and takedown defense but thinks du Plessis's explosiveness and variety give him the edge.

Big Brady picks du Plessis, expecting a chaotic fight. He notes du Plessis has power and thrives in chaos, while Strickland lacks power and often goes to decision. He believes du Plessis will land a big shot early and finish Strickland in the first or second round, similar to his win over Whittaker. He worries about du Plessis's cardio in later rounds but thinks it won't matter.

Cody sees this as a 50-50 fight but leans Strickland due to his proven cardio, takedown defense, and ability to fight down the stretch. He notes du Plessis has a history of gassing in later rounds and getting finished, while Strickland conserves energy well and has a high output. Cody also mentions a live betting opportunity on Strickland if du Plessis starts strong.

Vreeland picks du Plessis, noting his submission grappling background and the possibility of winning a decision like Jared Cannonier did against Strickland. He mentions that Strickland landed more punches but Cannonier landed the memorable ones. Vreeland also notes that Strickland's grappling is not great, and du Plessis could use his grappling if needed. He sees it as a two-outcome fight: Strickland by decision or du Plessis by finish.

Daniel Vreeland picks Dricus du Plessis to win the middleweight title. He believes Strickland's jab-and-volume game plan won't be enough against du Plessis's awkward but violent style and power. He notes du Plessis holds the record for most significant strikes in middleweight history and has proven he can go the distance. Vreeland also mentions he bet two units on du Plessis at +125, showing strong conviction.

Fox picks du Plessis, calling it a two-outcome fight: Strickland by decision or du Plessis by knockout. He notes that du Plessis decimated Robert Whittaker and has good grappling. Fox also mentions that Strickland's emotional state (being mad) is a reason not to pick him. He sees du Plessis winning by knockout or possibly decision.

Lucrative James picks Dricus du Plessis to retain his title, citing du Plessis's diverse skill set (spinning kicks, elbows, takedowns, submissions) compared to Strickland's limited pocket boxing. He notes du Plessis's durability and power advantage, the championship mentality, and improved cardio from the first fight. He predicts a clearer win than the split decision last time, possibly by KO or decision.

I'm taking Strickland to win. He has the cardio and output advantage, and he can make du Plessis uncomfortable. If du Plessis doesn't finish him in the first two rounds, his cardio might fade and Strickland can take over. Strickland's awkward pressure style is hard to deal with. I think Strickland weathers the storm, walks him down, batters him, and possibly finishes in the fourth or fifth round. The -145 line is not bad for a fighter with those advantages.

Paul agrees with Cody, picking Strickland but emphasizing the prop side. He worries about du Plessis's early power and wrestling but believes Strickland's pace and volume will overwhelm du Plessis in later rounds. He compares it to the Abus Magomedov fight where Strickland survived an early onslaught and took over.

Angelo picks Israel Adesanya confidently, saying it should be Izzy all day and the -650 should be wider. He notes that Izzy is an elite striker with power and technique, while Strickland is a blue-collar volume puncher with no particular power or speed. Angelo expects a one-sided win for Izzy, possibly by decision. He suggests betting Izzy minus 5.5 points for better value.

Big Brady confidently picks Israel Adesanya, noting Strickland lacks power and wrestling threat. He thinks Adesanya will pick him apart for five rounds. He is not sure about a finish due to Strickland's durability. He predicts a decision win.

Cody picks Israel Adesanya as the rightful favorite, citing his speed advantage, technical striking, and ability to stay on the outside and pick apart Strickland. He notes that Strickland's best chance is to make it ugly with grappling, but doubts he will employ that game plan consistently. Cody acknowledges the line is juiced but sees Adesanya winning the majority of rounds, especially with the hometown crowd in Australia.

Daniel Levi picks Israel Adesanya confidently, citing Adesanya's superior striking, counter-punching, and leg kick game. He notes that Sean Strickland walks in a straight line, backs up in a straight line, and doesn't cut off the cage properly, which will leave him open to Adesanya's combinations. Levi also mentions that Strickland's parrying style leaves his chin exposed to follow-up strikes. He acknowledges the possibility of an upset but believes Adesanya has him covered in all areas.

Lucrative James is highly confident Israel Adesanya will win, calling him a deserved -600 favorite. He sees no clear path for Sean Strickland: Strickland lacks power, takedown threat, and volume to outwork Adesanya. James expects Adesanya to land calf kicks, forcing Strickland to switch stances and lose power. He believes Adesanya will make it look easy, possibly by decision or late knockout if Strickland gets frustrated. James dismisses Strickland's chances as a fluke.

Adesanya is a disciplined striker who sets up traps and executes game plans. He has excellent takedown defense. Strickland has poor striking defense, leaving his head on the center line and leaning back. Adesanya should work leg kicks and body shots, then set up a head kick or knockout. He will likely finish within four rounds.

Paul picks Adesanya but notes the line is too wide, suggesting the true line should be around -425 to -450. He acknowledges Strickland's volume and pressure could pose problems, but believes Adesanya's precision and hometown crowd will carry him. Paul mentions that if he's having a good night, he might throw a small bet on Strickland as a hedge.

Angelo picks Abus Magomedov despite Strickland being the favorite. He notes Strickland's high volume and takedown defense but believes Abus's power and versatility will be key. He expects Abus to win early rounds but acknowledges Strickland's pressure could wear him down. He mentions a potential plus 5.5 point buy on the scorecard for Abus.

Big Brady picks Sean Strickland to win by decision. He notes Strickland has faced much better competition and has five-round experience, while Magomedov has only one UFC fight. He thinks Strickland is the better striker, especially as the fight goes on, and Magomedov's only path is a first-round knockout. He expects Strickland to survive the early rounds and take over later.

Cody is shocked the line moved from -175 to -145, as Strickland is coming off a dominant five-round performance on short notice. He emphasizes Strickland's proven cardio, durability, and volume against elite competition, while Magomedov has only one UFC win over Dustin Stoltzfus and was knocked out by Lewis Taylor in PFL. Cody sees Magomedov's level of competition as far below Strickland's and believes the line is a trap but is willing to bet Strickland anyway.

Daniel leans Strickland due to his proven volume and output over five rounds, citing his 200+ significant strikes against Imavov and 150+ against Cannonier. He acknowledges Magomedov's power and finishing ability, especially early, but sees Strickland's pace and durability as key. However, he is not confident enough to bet, calling it a 'dog or pass' situation because Magomedov's decision record (5-1) and power make the outcome uncertain. He notes Strickland's output increases in later rounds, which favors him if the fight goes the distance.

James discusses the matchup at length but does not make a definitive pick. He notes that Abusupiyan has stylistic advantages in wrestling that Strickland hasn't faced recently, and that Strickland's pressure and experience in five-round fights are factors. He says he needs to do more tape before coming to a prediction.

Paul agrees with Cody, surprised by the line movement. He highlights Strickland's ability to go five rounds at 185, his volume (182 significant strikes in his last fight), and his ranking as #4 in the division. He notes Magomedov is not ranked in the top 15 and has fought mostly low-level competition. Paul believes Strickland's experience and cardio are decisive.

Angelo picks Imavov because he believes Sean Strickland is a broken fighter after the Alex Pereira knockout. He notes Strickland's recent losses and short notice, while Imavov has power and grappling. He thinks Strickland's jab-heavy style won't be enough and Imavov controls the pace. He mentions Imavov's cardio concerns are overblown and that Strickland's only path is if Imavov tires.

Big Brady picks Kelvin Gastelum for the upset, citing concerns about Imavov's cardio over five rounds. He notes that Imavov faded in the third round of his fight against Buckley and has never gone five rounds, while Gastelum has championship-round experience against top competition. He believes Gastelum's wrestling could be a key path to victory, taking Imavov down to tire him out and avoid striking exchanges. However, he admits he doesn't feel great about the pick and likely won't bet on the fight.

Cody picks Strickland, citing his durability, high striking volume (e.g., 152 against Cannonier), and takedown defense. He notes Imavov's questionable cardio and level of competition (outside top 15). He expects a 25-minute fight or a late stoppage by Strickland, but acknowledges the line is 50/50 and not a high-confidence play.

Connor picks Strickland because Imavov has yet to look like a comfortable three-round fighter, often fading in the third round due to inefficient movement and tension. He notes that Strickland is insanely durable, calm, and consistent round to round, and that Imavov's style of head-hunting and inefficient striking will be a problem against Strickland's pressure. Connor also mentions that Imavov has feasted on shorter opponents and struggled against fighters who can get into range and trade, which Strickland does well. He acknowledges the short notice and weight change but believes Strickland's constant training mitigates those factors.

Jacob is confident in Imavov, having bet him at +100. He argues Strickland is overrated and not the same after the Pereira loss, citing his inactivity in the Cannonier fight. He believes Imavov's power at 205 will be too much and Strickland will be tentative. He sees Strickland's only path to victory if Imavov gasses, but thinks Imavov showed heart against Buckley.

Paul leans towards Imavov because he has been preparing for this card while Strickland is coming off a short-notice fight and the holidays. He questions Strickland's training and notes that judges are crediting damaging strikes more than volume jabs. However, he is not rushing to bet this fight, calling it a 50/50 main event.