UFC Fight Night: de Ridder vs. Allen

Angelo is confident Reinier de Ridder wins, citing his size, grappling, and durability. He notes de Ridder's impressive performances against Whittaker, Bo Nickal, and Cannonier. He believes Brendan Allen will fade, similar to his fight against Anthony Hernandez, and that Allen's camp change is a disadvantage.

Big Brady acknowledges de Ridder's unorthodox striking but highlights his size, power, and dangerous knees. He thinks de Ridder has better cardio than Allen on short notice and is more dangerous in both striking and grappling. He predicts de Ridder knocks out Allen in the second round.

Cody picks de Ridder, citing his size, physicality, and excellent jiu-jitsu. He notes de Ridder's funky striking and ability to tax opponents with cage control, as seen in the Whittaker fight. He believes Brendan Allen's cardio issues and short notice will be exploited over five rounds, leading to a late stoppage or decision.

Connor leans toward de Ridder but acknowledges Allen's chances. He notes that Allen is well-rounded and could be competitive if he pushes forward and stays confident. However, he thinks Allen is likely to grapple with de Ridder, which plays into de Ridder's strengths. Connor also mentions that de Ridder is defensively flawed and could be knocked out by a big shot.

James sees similarities between de Ridder and Dricus du Plessis, noting that de Ridder's unorthodox style, including a devastating step-in knee and judo trips, makes him difficult to prepare for. He believes Brendan Allen will start well but fade due to short notice and cardio issues, with de Ridder's pressure and grappling taking over in later rounds. James predicts a finish in rounds 3 or 4.

The host thinks de Ridder will utilize his aggressiveness to keep Allen on the back foot and mix in wrestling. He believes Allen's submission defense will be good enough to avoid a finish, but unless the short notice fight causes his gas tank to fail, de Ridder will keep top pressure and control to win on the scorecards.

Paul agrees with Cody, emphasizing de Ridder's size and grappling pressure. He highlights Brendan Allen's tendency to fade in later rounds, as seen against Vettori and Curtis, and believes de Ridder's full camp and five-round experience will be decisive. He expects de Ridder to win by late stoppage or decision.

The MMA Guru picks Reinier de Ridder over Brendan Allen. He references de Ridder's performance against Whittaker and his body knees. He believes Allen is stationary and will be vulnerable to body knees, leading to a submission or TKO. He predicts de Ridder will hurt Allen with a knee to the body and finish with a submission in round two or three.

Zane picks de Ridder, citing his aggression and ability to finish. He notes that de Ridder is more aggressive and looks to finish, while Allen tends to have close fights against composed opponents. Zane believes de Ridder's size and ability to reverse positions will be key, and that Allen's attack-focused grappling may lead to losing positions.

Angelo picks Mike Malott, citing his high fight IQ, technical improvements after the Magny loss, and well-rounded skills. He criticizes Kevin Holland's inconsistency and poor performance against Daniel Rodriguez, calling it an all-time low. He trusts Malott's control and power.

Big Brady has zero trust in Kevin Holland after his loss to Daniel Rodriguez, calling him a dumbass and declining. He questions Malott's durability and cardio but picks him by default. He predicts Malott takes Holland down and submits him, noting Holland's ground game stinks.

Cody picks Malott, citing Kevin Holland's recent durability issues and high fight frequency. He notes Holland was knocked down twice by Daniel Rodriguez, a sign of declining chin. Malott has a wrestling advantage and can mix takedowns with striking. Cody believes Malott will win by decision or late stoppage, especially with home crowd support.

Connor picks Malott, emphasizing that Holland cannot be trusted to fight disciplined. He notes that Malott is proficient and consistent, with sharp boxing in the pocket. Connor points out that Holland's approach of 'having fun' leads to messy fights, and his chin may be deteriorating after getting hurt by Daniel Rodriguez. He believes Malott can outwork Holland.

James admits he has a poor track record betting on Malott fights but picks Malott due to his skill set and potential improvements after the Neil Magny loss. He questions Kevin Holland's recent form and durability, noting Holland's poor performance against Daniel Rodriguez. James expects a slow-paced fight and predicts Malott via decision, though he is not confident.

The host thinks this is a tough stylistic matchup for Malott. He believes Holland can pick Malott apart from distance with his speed, range, and distance work, and will eventually find a big shot to put Malott away.

Paul picks Holland, arguing that the D-Rod fight was on short notice and Holland has had three months to prepare. He believes Holland's length and reach advantage will be key, and that Malott may gas as he did against Magny. Paul sees value in Holland as a dog and plans to bet him.

The MMA Guru picks Mike Malott over Kevin Holland. He notes Malott's submission skills and takedowns, and his game plan against Neil Magny. He criticizes Holland's inconsistency and chin issues. He predicts Malott will chew at the leg, get takedowns, and finish by arm triangle submission in round two.

Zane picks Malott, citing his composure, defensive soundness, and ability to pick targets. He notes that Malott can outwrestle Holland and kick his legs. Zane is concerned about Holland's inconsistency and recent poor performance against Daniel Rodriguez, where Holland made terrible errors and got hurt. He believes Malott will fight a smart fight.

Angelo slightly leans Chito Vera, noting his durability, volume, and ability to win in scrambles. He questions Zahabi's win streak, calling the Aldo win lucky and the Basharat win a robbery. He worries about Vera's slow starts in three-round fights and potential chin decline.

Big Brady is unsure which version of Vera shows up. He thinks if Vera is motivated, he can win with his striking and elbows. He notes Vera always loses the first round but could steal rounds two and three. He picks Vera by close decision, acknowledging the fight has split decision written all over it.

Cody picks Zahabi, citing Marlon Vera's slow starts and accumulated damage. He notes Vera has been hit over 1600 times in the UFC and is slowing down. Zahabi's high volume, precision, and methodical game plan will allow him to win rounds. Cody expects Zahabi to win by decision.

Connor picks Vera, but with hesitation. He notes that Vera is a slow-paced fighter who lets opponents rally early, then becomes more aggressive in later rounds. Connor thinks Zahabi will give Vera no choice but to get aggressive, and Vera's durability and power could pay off. However, he acknowledges that Vera's style doesn't deserve to win rounds and that Zahabi could be one of the fighters who works around it.

James calls this a close fight and struggles to pick a winner. He favors Zahabi due to the Canadian crowd and potential judging bias, as seen in Zahabi's win over Jose Aldo. He notes Vera's durability and cardio advantages but questions Vera's recent form and damage taken. James predicts a split decision for Zahabi.

The host thinks Vera's aggressive style will be too much for Zahabi, who prefers to sit back at distance and counter. He expects Vera to continuously push forward with aggressive output, leading to a late finish or a decision win.

Paul leans Zahabi, noting his volume and precision. He mentions Vera's slow starts and that Zahabi is Canadian, which could help in a close decision. Paul expects a close fight but gives the edge to Zahabi.

The MMA Guru picks Aiemann Zahabi over Marlon Vera. He criticizes Vera's recent performances, calling him a punching bag and easy to game plan against. He praises Zahabi's team and game planning, and his toughness shown against Aldo. He predicts Zahabi will use takedowns and clean striking to win a clear decision, 30-27.

Zane picks Vera, but hesitantly. He notes that Vera's style is not built to win rounds, but he is dangerous and can rally in later rounds. Zane thinks Zahabi's physical limitations may catch up to him against elite talent, and Vera's power and durability could be the difference. However, he acknowledges Zahabi's impressive win over Aldo and his unique ability to fight off both front and back foot.

Angelo picks Manon Fiorot, citing her size, takedown defense, and striking. He expects her to manage range and stuff Jasudavicius's wrestling. He notes Jasudavicius's wrestling credentials but doubts she can close distance against Fiorot. He prefers Jasudavicius as a fantasy dart due to lower salary.

Big Brady is impressed by Jasudavicius's improvements, especially her ground and pound and submissions. He thinks Fiorot's takedown defense hasn't been properly tested and believes Jasudavicius can get takedowns. He predicts Jasudavicius wins two rounds and takes a decision.

Cody picks Fiorot, citing her excellent takedown defense and superior striking. He notes Jasudavicius struggles when she can't get takedowns, as seen against Cortez. Fiorot's lateral movement and volume will keep Jasudavicius at bay. Cody expects Fiorot to win by decision.

Connor picks Fiorot, emphasizing her physicality and takedown defense. He notes that Fiorot is difficult to deal with physically and escapes quickly when taken down. Connor thinks Jasudavicius's path to victory is through repeated takedowns, which is hard to envision. He believes Fiorot will outwork Jasudavicius in a scrappy fight, as she has done against other high-volume opponents.

James views this as a striker vs grappler matchup, with Fiorot having elite takedown defense and superior striking. He acknowledges Jasudavicius's ground threat but doubts she can secure takedowns consistently. James notes Fiorot's toughness from her fight with Valentina Shevchenko (broken nose) and predicts a dominant decision win.

The host thinks Fiorot's perpetual movement, footwork, and distance striking will cause Jasudavicius too many problems, leaving her a sitting duck on the feet. He expects a classic Fiorot performance leading to a decision victory.

Paul picks Fiorot, agreeing with Cody. He highlights Fiorot's takedown defense against top grapplers like Blanchfield and Shevchenko. He believes Jasudavicius's striking is a hole and that Fiorot's speed and footwork will be too much. Paul expects Fiorot to win.

The MMA Guru picks Manon Fiorot over Jasmine Jasudavicius. He notes Fiorot's close fight with Valentina Shevchenko and her takedown defense. He believes Jasudavicius's takedown-heavy style won't work against Fiorot, and that she lacks the striking to beat Fiorot. He predicts Fiorot will stuff takedowns and out-land Jasudavicius for a decision win.

Zane picks Fiorot, citing her technical striking and ability to outwork opponents. He notes that Fiorot has consistently outstruck high-volume fighters like Blanchfield and Semenara. Zane believes Jasudavicius, despite her drive and improved takedowns, will struggle to repeatedly take Fiorot down and will be outworked on the feet. He acknowledges Jasudavicius's top game but doubts she can maintain control.

Angelo picks Davey Grant, citing his forward pressure, solid defense, and durability. He notes Charles Jourdain has cleaned up his wild style but may still be exploitable. Grant's age and chin are concerns, but his recent wins over Blackshear and a close fight with Marcos give confidence.

Big Brady likes Jourdain fighting at home and thinks the judges favor him. He notes Grant is 39 and father time is undefeated, especially at lower weight classes. He thinks Jourdain is getting Grant at the right time and picks him by decision, though he won't lay -170.

Cody picks Jourdain, citing his volume and unorthodox striking. He notes Grant doesn't wrestle much, which plays into Jourdain's strengths. Jourdain's takedown defense is a concern, but Grant doesn't shoot. Cody expects Jourdain to win by decision or late stoppage.

Connor leans toward Davey Grant, citing Grant's consistent toughness, awkwardness, and ability to capitalize on retreating opponents. He notes that Jourdain can drift and have wrong ideas, and that Grant's pressure and durability could cause Jourdain trouble, especially given Jourdain's poor defensive wrestling and tendency to improvise. Connor also mentions the age gap (Grant is 39) but still favors Grant's reliability.

James finds this a tough fight to call, noting both fighters have struggled with certain styles. He leans toward Jourdain due to his better career trajectory and Grant's age (39). James mentions Jourdain's guillotine threat but expects a close fight.

The host thinks Jourdain's youth, speed, unorthodox striking, and dangerous BJJ will help him chip away at Grant, pull off a desperation takedown, and eventually snatch a submission victory.

Paul picks Grant, citing his value as a dog. He notes Grant is always game and has good volume. Jourdain's weight cut to 135 is a concern, and Grant can exploit that. Paul plans to bet Grant at plus money.

The MMA Guru picks Charles Jourdain over Davey Grant. He initially considered Grant due to his underdog success but believes Jourdain's skills are superior. He notes Jourdain's ability to beat opponents to the punch on the inside and his guillotine threats. He predicts Jourdain will catch Grant with a straight shot and possibly finish by TKO or guillotine, citing Grant's neck surgeries.

Zane agrees with Connor, picking Davey Grant. He emphasizes that Grant is always tough and crafty, and that Jourdain often shows up with the wrong plan or no plan, resorting to wild brawling that doesn't work well. Zane acknowledges that Grant's success can't last forever at 39, but he still expects Grant to deliver.

Angelo leans Matt Frevola as the better fighter with good wrestling and power, but acknowledges Kyle Nelson's durability and power. He expects a finish either way and calls it a 50/50 fight. He picks Frevola but with low confidence.

Big Brady doubts Frevola will wrestle and expects a stand-up brawl. He questions both fighters' chins but thinks Nelson has the better chin and power. He predicts Nelson lands a big shot in the first round, picking a first-round KO.

Cody picks Frevola, citing his wrestling advantage and power. He notes Nelson is moving up from 145 and has struggled against wrestlers. Frevola can take Nelson down and ground-and-pound. Cody believes Frevola's size and grappling will be decisive, but admits low conviction.

Connor picks Nelson, agreeing that Frevola has shown bad signs recently. He notes that Frevola has not looked like he wants to fight in his last few outings. Connor believes Nelson's composure and range fighting will be effective, but acknowledges that Nelson has a history of melting down. He thinks Nelson should be a slight favorite.

James favors Frevola due to his wrestling, cardio, and natural lightweight frame, while Nelson is moving up from featherweight. He acknowledges Frevola's chin issues but believes his wrestling and pace will overwhelm Nelson. James predicts a decision win for Frevola.

The host thinks this fight could be a car crash, but if Frevola plays it safely and avoids Nelson's power, he can easily take the fight to the ground and rinse and repeat that style. He expects Frevola to win by submission or on the scorecards.

Paul picks Nelson, but with zero conviction. He notes both fighters love to brawl and have power. Paul thinks it's a pick'em and expects a finish. He leans Nelson but says it's a coin flip.

The MMA Guru picks Matt Frevola over Kyle Nelson. He acknowledges both are coming off losses but believes Frevola's competition has been tougher and his good moments are better. He thinks Frevola can mix in grappling and takedowns, and that Nelson is too rigid and simple. He predicts a decision win, 30-27.

Zane picks Nelson, citing his improved composure and range fighting. He notes that Nelson has become a cautious, consistent range fighter with good defense. Zane points out that Frevola has looked gun-shy and lacks a fight outside the pocket. He believes Nelson can win by using his jab and staying at range.

Angelo picks Drew Dober to win, citing his technical striking and ability to grapple if needed. He notes Dober's recent chin issues but believes Kyle Prepolec is not a UFC-caliber fighter and lacks power. He expects Dober to find a finish, making him a good fantasy play at $9,400.

Big Brady is concerned about Drew Dober's age, fight mileage, and recent chin issues, but believes the skill gap is massive in Dober's favor. He notes Prepolec has never been knocked out and is likely more durable at this stage. He picks Dober by decision, staying away from the -550 price.

Cody picks Prepolec, citing value. He notes Dober's chin is declining and he has been knocked out recently. Prepolec has never been knocked out and has a full camp. Cody believes Prepolec can catch Dober and win by knockout, but admits it's a value play.

Connor picks Drew Dober but is hesitant, acknowledging that Dober seems to have lost his confidence and timing after the Manuel Torres loss. He notes that Prepolec is a tough slugger who has never been knocked out, and that Dober's usual brawling approach may not work anymore. However, Connor still expects Dober to win because Prepolec is a step down in competition.

James picks Dober to win but notes value on Prepolec as an underdog. He questions Dober's recent chin issues after knockouts by Jean Silva and Matt Frevola, while Prepolec has never been knocked out. James expects a striking battle where Prepolec could land a head kick, but ultimately favors Dober's speed and experience.

The host is not a big fan of Dober at the super chalky line given his recent form and Prepolec being a striker himself. However, he still thinks Dober is the better all-around fighter and should mix striking and grappling to win on the scorecards, provided his durability holds up.

Paul leans Prepolec, agreeing with Cody on value. He notes Dober's durability is a question and Prepolec has power. Paul says he'll have a small bet on Prepolec but has low conviction.

The MMA Guru picks Drew Dober over Kyle Prepolec. He acknowledges Dober's recent KO loss to Manuel Torres but attributes that to Torres being a genetic freak with nasty power. He believes Dober still has it and will beat Prepolec easily, noting Prepolec shouldn't be in the UFC. He predicts a TKO in the second round.

Zane picks Kyle Prepolec as a wild flyer, citing Dober's recent struggles and loss of confidence. He notes that Prepolec is a tough slugger who has never been knocked out, and that Dober's path to victory is to slug it out, which may no longer work. Zane is not confident but sees value in the underdog.

Angelo picks Cody Gibson, citing his length, striking, and takedown ability. He expects Gibson to use a similar game plan as against Anne Hallegren, with multiple takedowns and control time. He notes Aori Qileng's vulnerability to takedowns, as seen against Raul Rosas.

Big Brady sees a clear grappling edge for Gibson, noting Qileng's poor takedown defense. He compares it to Gibson's win over Chad Anheliger where he controlled the fight with takedowns. He questions Gibson's fight IQ and cardio but picks him by decision.

Cody picks Gibson, citing his size, wrestling background, and durability. He notes Gibson has never been knocked out and has high volume. Qileng lacks power and has poor takedown defense. Cody expects Gibson to outwork Qileng and win by decision or late stoppage.

Connor picks Gibson, noting his improved boxing and technical proficiency. He points out that Gibson works hard on the technical side and showed sharp combinations against Blackshear. However, Connor notes Gibson's tendency to overpush and tire, which could be a problem against Aoriqileng's durability. He still favors Gibson's more purposeful game.

James sees Gibson's wrestling as a clear path to victory, but worries about his age (38) and Qileng's improvements in takedown defense. He expects Gibson to grind out a decision with takedowns and top control, though Qileng's striking could be dangerous if the fight stays on the feet.

The host believes Gibson is a better striker and wrestler than Qileng. As long as Gibson can muzzle Qileng's aggressive style, he should mix the martial arts well and win on the scorecards.

Paul picks Gibson, agreeing with Cody. He notes Qileng's low volume and questionable takedown defense. Gibson's wrestling and pressure will be key. Paul sees Gibson winning about 70% of the time and thinks the line is fair.

The MMA Guru picks Cody Gibson over Aori Qileng. He likes Gibson's pressure and volume, noting Qileng has been walked down before. He believes Gibson will throw twice as many shots and win a decision if neither finishes. He admits neither has great wins but trusts Gibson's output.

Zane picks Gibson, citing his more functional game and ability to bank early momentum. He notes that Gibson's boxing has improved and he fights with purpose, while Aoriqileng is a scrappy but less purposeful fighter. Zane worries about Gibson's tendency to fade in round three, but believes he will build a two-round lead before tiring.

Angelo picks Bruno Silva as an underdog, arguing he is tough, gritty, and dangerous everywhere. He notes Silva's recent losses were to elite strikers (Joshua Van, Manel Kape) and believes he can win a dogfight. He acknowledges Park's grappling and power but questions his resume and durability.

Big Brady notes Park is unproven against top competition but likes his youth, power, and slick grappling. He worries about Bruno Silva's age, damage taken, and questionable durability. He thinks Park will pressure and finish Silva as the fight goes on, predicting a third-round finish.

Cody picks Silva, citing his power and durability. He notes Park has been knocked down by lesser competition and has poor durability. Silva is a dog who fights for your dollar. Cody expects Silva to win by knockout or decision.

Connor picks Bruno Silva, highlighting Silva's dynamic counter-punching and ability to find big shots even when losing. He notes that Park has thrived on athleticism and size but lacks technical depth, and that Silva's right hand is a major threat to Park's square stance. Connor also points out that Park's only real test was against Tatsuro Taira, who dominated him, and that Silva is a much tougher step up.

James is torn on this fight. He acknowledges Bruno Silva's skills but questions his durability and age (35) after two brutal knockout losses. He also notes Park's finishing ability but doubts his cardio if the fight goes long. James plans to do more tape study before making a final decision.

The host sees this as a great spot for Park to get back in the win column, utilizing his athleticism, speed, and power advantages over the veteran Bruno Silva. He expects Park to land a seminal blow in the second or third round and win by knockout.

Paul picks Silva, agreeing with Cody. He notes Park's striking is not elite and his durability is questionable. Silva has fought tougher competition and has power. Paul sees value at plus 215.

The MMA Guru picks Bruno Silva over Kyung Ho Kang Park (Park Hyun-sung). He notes Silva's dangerous striking and BJJ, and believes he won't be submitted. He thinks Park's loss to Tatsuro Taira shows he is bottom-of-the-barrel flyweight level. He predicts a hard-fought split decision win for Silva, taking him as an underdog.

Zane also picks Bruno Silva, citing Silva's underrated toughness and ability to figure out opponents who crash into him. He notes that Park has been pushed past his level of experience and has no easy answers to problems. Zane believes Silva is a lot more difficult than he gets credit for, and that Park's athleticism won't be enough.

Angelo picks Jordan Santos (Djorden Ribeiro dos Santos) as an underdog, citing his high volume striking and forward pressure. He notes Danny Barlow struggles when backing up and may not land a knockout. Santos's insane volume and toughness make him a great dog at $7,000.

Big Brady dismisses Barlow's loss to Sam Patterson as not a bad look, while heavily criticizing Santos for losing to Azie Diaz. He thinks Barlow has UFC wins and power, while Santos is not UFC caliber. He predicts Barlow will knock out Santos, noting Santos eats a lot of punches and Barlow has power.

Cody picks Santos, citing his volume and durability. He notes Barlow is moving up to 185 and may not carry power. Santos trains at American Top Team and has better cardio. Cody expects Santos to outwork Barlow and win by decision.

Connor picks Danny Barlow, emphasizing Barlow's superior athleticism and cleaner technique. He notes that Santos is a messy brawler who is wide open and uncoordinated, and that Barlow's straight shots and speed should be decisive. However, Connor cautions that Barlow is not that good and the odds are too wide.

James is confident in Barlow due to his speed advantage moving up from welterweight and superior striking. He notes Barlow's chin issues but believes moving up in weight will help. James predicts a knockout in rounds 2 or 3 as Barlow's left hand piles up.

The host thinks Barlow has a good matchup to bounce back from his first pro loss. He expects Barlow to counter Santos' volume-heavy approach effectively, landing a straight left down the pipe and winning by knockout.

Paul picks Santos, citing Barlow's lack of volume and questionable cardio. He notes Barlow's wins have been unimpressive and he struggled against Veretennikov. Santos's pressure and volume will be key. Paul expects Santos to win by decision.

The MMA Guru picks Danny Barlow to spark out Jorgen De Castro (Djorden Ribeiro dos Santos) in round one. He considers it a mismatch, noting De Castro's close fight with Ozzy Diaz and his hittability on the feet. He believes Barlow's speed will be too much and predicts a first-round KO.

Zane also picks Barlow, noting that Barlow has real athletic gifts and throws good straight shots, while Santos is a messy brawler who got away with things against a poor opponent. Zane expects Barlow to win but thinks it will be a struggle, and that the odds are too wide given Barlow's struggles against better competition.

Angelo is confident Stephanie Luciano wins, estimating she wins 95 out of 100 times. He notes her busy striking, forward pressure, and cardio, but doubts she will get a finish. He highlights Ravena Oliveira's long layoff, knee surgery, and weight class drop as major disadvantages. He expects a dominant decision for Luciano.

Big Brady notes Oliveira is coming down two weight classes and hasn't fought in two years, making her unpredictable. He likes Luciano's volume, cardio, and improving takedown defense. He thinks Luciano is the much better fighter but worries about Oliveira's potential improvements. He picks Luciano by decision.

Cody picks Luciano, citing her volume and striking. He notes Oliveira is moving down two weight classes and has poor striking. Luciano's takedown defense has improved. Cody expects Luciano to win by decision.

Connor picks Ravena Oliveira, believing she will be too big and strong for Luciano. He notes that Oliveira is a flyweight/bantamweight cutting to strawweight, and that she knows how to be a blanket. Connor dislikes the matchup but expects Oliveira to overwhelm Luciano physically.

James sees Luciano as levels above Oliveira in all areas: striking, jiu-jitsu, wrestling, and cardio. He believes Luciano should be an even bigger favorite and expects a dominant win, though he is unsure about a finish. He plans to look for prop value closer to fight night.

The host believes Oliveira will struggle in her return after two years away, and Luciano will put it on her with striking and takedowns. He expects a clear win for Luciano on the scorecards.

Paul picks Luciano, citing her volume and striking ability. He notes Oliveira's takedowns are ineffective and she loses striking exchanges. Luciano's improvements in takedown defense are key. Paul expects Luciano to win.

The MMA Guru picks Stephanie Luciano over Taila Santos (Ravena Oliveira). He notes both are not great but Luciano had a close fight with Sam Hughes, who he believes would dominate Santos. He sees Luciano as younger and possibly improving to Hughes' level. He predicts a decision win, 29-28.

Zane agrees with Connor, picking Oliveira. He notes that Luciano showed promise against Sam Hughes but was ultimately overwhelmed by power and size, and that Oliveira is even bigger. Zane thinks the odds are off and Luciano shouldn't be such a big favorite.

Angelo picks Azamat Murzakanov (likely referring to Azamat Bekoev) to win, citing his knockout power, wrestling ability, and versatility. He notes that Bekoev is undersized but can dictate where the fight takes place. He dismisses Yousri Belgaroui's kickboxing background, comparing him to Alex Pereira but stating he lacks the takedown defense to keep the fight standing.

Big Brady acknowledges Bekoev's hype and two first-round KOs but has questions about his cardio. He notes Belgaroui's kickboxing background and size advantage but believes Bekoev should resort to wrestling, where he has good control and a sneaky submission game. He sees Bekoev winning by any method but picks a decision.

Cody leans Bekoev, citing his wrestling and power. He notes Belgaroui has poor takedown defense. However, Cody is wary of the price and Belgaroui's striking credentials. He plans to wait for better odds.

Connor picks Bekoev, citing his violent performances and ability to dominate physically. He notes that Belgaroui is a kickboxing convert who lacks MMA wrestling and distance management, and that Bekoev's aggression and takedown threat will be decisive. Connor also mentions Belgaroui's size but doubts his ability to handle pressure.

James views this as a striker vs grappler matchup, with Bekoev's wrestling being the key. He acknowledges Belgaroui's high-level striking and dangerous knees but believes Bekoev will secure takedowns and control the fight. James predicts a decision win for Bekoev.

The host thinks Belgaroui will struggle with Bekoev's wrestling and improved striking. He expects Bekoev to mix things up well and grind Belgaroui down to win on the scorecards.

Paul leans Bekoev, citing his wrestling and power. He notes Belgaroui's grappling is a question mark. However, Paul is cautious about the line and expects it to move. He plans to use Bekoev in parlays sparingly.

The MMA Guru picks Azamat Murzakanov (Bekoev) over Yousri Belgaroui. He acknowledges Belgaroui's kickboxing background and training with Alex Pereira but notes his inexperience and poor performance in the Contender Series. He highlights Murzakanov's experience, training at American Top Team, and his first-round finish over Ryan Bader. He predicts Murzakanov will not fear Belgaroui's striking and will mix in grappling and KO blows, finishing by ground and pound in the first or second round.

Zane also picks Bekoev, emphasizing that Belgaroui has not faced a credible wrestling threat and that Bekoev will likely dash in and take him down. He notes that Belgaroui's kickboxing style is not well-attuned to MMA and that he subtracts tools due to takedown fear. Zane expects Bekoev to be aggressive and punishing.

Angelo discusses both fighters but does not make a clear pick. He notes that Iasmin Lucindo (the originally scheduled opponent) is a decent striker with takedown defense issues, and Melissa Croden is a tough striker making her UFC debut. He says he will fade both fighters for fantasy purposes, indicating no strong lean either way.

Big Brady likes Melissa Croden's toughness and forward pressure. He notes she is strong in the clinch, has sneaky grappling, and good ground and pound. He is not impressed by Tainara Lisboa's striking and thinks Croden can push her against the cage and potentially finish. He prefers Croden at the underdog price but still picks her to win by decision.

Cody picks Lisboa, citing her striking advantage and experience. He notes Croden has retired twice and is making her UFC debut at 34. Lisboa has fought better competition. Cody expects Lisboa to win by decision or late stoppage.

Connor picks Croden, noting her good directional game and ability to clinch and be violent. He points out that Lisboa has poor footwork and distance management, making her vulnerable to Croden's clinch entries. Connor believes Croden will be able to crash in at will and dominate in the clinch.

James sees value on Croden as an underdog, noting her striking skills and potential grappling advantage if Lisboa shoots takedowns. He worries about Croden's boxing defense but believes the Canadian crowd could help in a close decision. James predicts a close decision win for Croden.

The host expects Croden to make an emphatic debut, utilizing her physicality, top control, and Muay Thai against the cage. He believes she will be far stronger than Lisboa and will grind out a finish in the second or third round.

Paul leans Croden, citing her size and clinch work. He notes she can control the fight against the cage. However, he has low conviction and says he'll wait for weigh-ins.

The MMA Guru picks Tainara Lisboa (referred to as Taila Santos) over Melissa Croden. He notes that Lisboa is a kickboxer with decent submission wins, while Croden has fought lesser competition. He acknowledges Lisboa's losses but justifies them by pointing to her experience against top fighters like Valentina Shevchenko in kickboxing. He leans towards Lisboa but admits there's not much to go off.

Zane agrees with Connor, picking Croden. He notes that Croden knows what she wants to do (clinch and punish) and that Lisboa cannot get out of the way. Zane expects Croden to achieve clinches easily and be violent from there.