UFC 274: Oliveira vs. Gaethje

Angelo picks Justin Gaethje, believing his volume and chin will overwhelm Oliveira. He argues that Oliveira's submissions are off the table because Gaethje won't go to the ground, and that Gaethje's forward pressure will wear Oliveira down. He acknowledges Oliveira's technical striking but thinks Gaethje's style is a bad matchup for him.

Big Brady picks Charles Oliveira to win by second-round submission. He believes Oliveira will weather Gaethje's early storm, pressure him against the cage, and drag the fight to the mat where Oliveira's elite BJJ will take over. He notes that Gaethje has shown vulnerability to wrestling, as seen in the Khabib fight, and that Oliveira has improved his cardio and durability, surviving early adversity against Chandler and Poirier. Brady thinks the striking is competitive but that Oliveira has more paths to victory, while Gaethje's main path is a first-round knockout.

Cody leans towards Charles Oliveira but is hesitant due to the -165 price tag. He notes that Oliveira has been hurt in recent fights (by Chandler and Poirier) but has shown heart to come back. Cody believes Gaethje's wild, reckless style creates openings for Oliveira's takedowns and submissions. He points out Gaethje's takedown defense is only 77% and that Oliveira took down Tony Ferguson and Dustin Poirier easily. However, Cody is concerned about Gaethje's cardio and durability, and plans to hedge if he gets far into the parlay.

Daniel Levi picks Charles Oliveira but is very hesitant, acknowledging that he sees a different outcome every time these two fight. He notes Oliveira's offensive brilliance and improved mental fortitude, but worries about his defensive liabilities, especially against Gaethje's leg kicks and power. He says he leans with the favorite because Oliveira has more paths to victory, but he is not betting the fight himself. He respects the value on Gaethje at plus 150 odds and understands why anyone would take the dog.

The host picks Charles Oliveira to win, likely by submission in the second round. He highlights Oliveira's finishing ability and record 15 UFC submission wins. He expects Oliveira to check leg kicks, stun Gaethje, and take the fight to the ground. He prefers betting under 2.5 rounds at -150, noting that only one of Oliveira's last 16 fights went over 2.5. He acknowledges Gaethje's power and durability but believes Oliveira's adversity-fighting has improved. He is not betting Oliveira moneyline due to the line being too wide.

Paul picks Charles Oliveira, believing he will eventually find his spot and get a submission. He notes that Oliveira doesn't necessarily need a takedown, but if he gets it to the ground, his BJJ is unmatched. Paul prefers the under 2.5 rounds at -145, expecting either Gaethje to melt Oliveira early or Oliveira to grab a submission. He acknowledges Gaethje's leg kicks and toughness but trusts Oliveira's finishing ability.

The MMA Guru picks Charles Oliveira, citing Gaethje's lack of jiu-jitsu awareness as seen against Khabib. He believes Oliveira will use a rangier game, mixing in kicks and takedowns, and eventually take Gaethje's back and choke him out in the first round. He notes Gaethje may be overthinking due to the title fight pressure and the threat of the takedown. He predicts a standing rear-naked choke.

Angelo picks Rose Namajunas despite acknowledging Carla's wrestling. He argues that Weili Zhang took Rose down five times but still lost, and that Carla's top pressure isn't as good as it should be. He believes Rose only has to worry about the wrestling, whereas Weili was a threat on the feet too.

Big Brady picks Rose Namajunas to win by decision, but he is hesitant. He acknowledges that Esparza will likely take Rose down multiple times, as Rose's takedown defense is only 51% and she hasn't faced many wrestlers. However, he believes Rose's get-up game and activity off her back will prevent Esparza from holding her down for long. On the feet, Rose has a clear advantage. He notes that if this were a three-round fight, he might pick Esparza, but over five rounds, Esparza's wrestling-heavy style is harder to sustain. He is not in love with the price tag.

Cody agrees with Paul, picking Rose Namajunas. He notes that Esparza's wrestling was effective a lifetime ago but Rose has improved her grappling significantly. Cody cites Tatiana Suarez's take that Esparza isn't physically strong and may not outmuscle Rose. He points out that Esparza has never fought into a fourth round, while Rose has championship-round experience. Cody believes Rose can nullify takedowns, get back up, and eventually win by late stoppage or decision.

Daniel Levi picks Rose Namajunas but is not confident, calling it a 'dog or pass' fight. He acknowledges Carla Esparza will land takedowns and has a path to victory, but believes Rose has more ways to win, especially on the feet. He says he would take Rose if the odds were closer to pick'em, but at -220 he is not betting. He respects the value on Esparza at plus 180 and thinks the true odds are around Rose -145 to -150.

The host picks Rose Namajunas, believing her striking and range management have improved significantly since their first fight. He expects Rose to focus on defending takedowns and getting back to her feet. He notes Carla's takedowns can be sloppy and she doesn't do much damage on top. He thinks Rose's ability to create space and her deceptive power will be key. He is not betting Rose at -205, but likes under 4.5 rounds at +135.

Paul picks Rose Namajunas, calling it a straightforward striker vs grappler matchup. He believes Rose's camp has focused on sprawl training and that if the fight stays on the feet, Esparza cannot compete. Paul suggests live betting Esparza if she gets an early takedown, but overall expects Rose to retain her title. He notes the -210 line might be a bit wide but still favors Rose.

The MMA Guru picks Rose Namajunas, citing her improved stand-up and grappling. He notes that Esparza's recent wins have been close and that she doesn't dominate on the ground anymore. He believes Namajunas will stuff takedowns, chew up Esparza's legs, and eventually submit her in the fourth round via rear-naked choke. He mentions the odds are close because Esparza has a previous win, but thinks Namajunas is the better fighter.

Angelo picks Michael Chandler, stating that everything Tony Ferguson does well, Chandler does better. He believes Chandler's chin has held up after the Gaethje war and expects a war similar to Chandler's last fight. He notes that Ferguson may not be the same after the Gaethje loss.

Big Brady picks Michael Chandler to win by decision. He notes that the blueprint to beat Ferguson is to take him down and control him, as Oliveira and Dariush did. However, Chandler is more of a striker and may not follow that blueprint. Brady thinks Chandler's power and wrestling could still get the job done, and he expects Chandler to mix in takedowns and win minutes on top. He is not laying -400 on Chandler but believes he will cruise to a decision. He acknowledges Ferguson's toughness and danger on the feet but thinks Chandler is closer to his prime.

Cody picks Michael Chandler but also dislikes the -380 price. He provides a detailed breakdown of Ferguson's decline, noting that Ferguson hasn't looked good in years, even in wins. Cody points out that Ferguson's game hasn't evolved, he trains alone, and his unorthodox style is no longer effective. He believes Chandler's wrestling and power will be too much, and that Chandler can take Ferguson's best shots. Cody expects Chandler to dominate early and possibly knock Ferguson out, but acknowledges Ferguson could win 3 out of 10 times.

Daniel Levi picks Michael Chandler confidently, though he does not bet the fight due to the high price. He notes Chandler's first-round explosiveness and wrestling fallback, while Ferguson has declined significantly, losing 11 straight rounds. He thinks Chandler's speed and power are too much for this version of Ferguson, but he is not interested in laying -425. He passes on betting entirely.

The host picks Michael Chandler to win by first-round knockout. He questions Chandler's wrestling approach, expecting him to stand and trade. He notes Ferguson's unorthodox style and durability, but believes Chandler's power will find the chin early. He is not betting Chandler at -400, but likes 'fight doesn't go to decision' at -180 and Ferguson submission at +750 as small shots. He acknowledges Ferguson's crafty jiu-jitsu and Chandler's history of being knocked out.

Paul picks Michael Chandler to win but is not confident at -380. He thinks Ferguson is washed and that Chandler will dominate early, possibly getting a finish. However, Paul is more interested in the 'fight goes to decision' prop at +150, citing Ferguson's durability. He notes that Ferguson has only been knocked out once (by Gaethje) and is tough to finish, so the decision prop offers value.

The MMA Guru picks Michael Chandler by first-round KO, believing Tony Ferguson is done. He argues Ferguson's ground game is overrated and that Chandler can take him down or KO him. He notes Chandler's speed and leg kicks, and that Ferguson's chin is up in the air. He thinks Chandler will slip inside Ferguson's jab and land a big right hand. He also mentions Chandler has more to fight for, including a potential McGregor fight.

Angelo picks Ovince Saint Preux despite his gut feeling for Shogun. He reasons that Saint Preux's athleticism and 66% takedown defense will make it tough for Shogun to take him down. He admits it goes against his childhood watching fights but goes with Saint Preux. He makes no bet on this fight.

Big Brady picks Ovince Saint Preux to win by first-round finish, but he is hesitant. He believes OSP is the less washed fighter and that Shogun has looked poor recently, getting knocked out by Paul Craig and struggling with aging opponents. Stylistically, OSP has the advantage on the feet and can also take Shogun down. However, OSP is 39 and has lost two in a row by knockout, so confidence is low. Brady expects OSP to finish Shogun early, but he would not recommend betting on this fight due to the red flags.

Cody picks OSP, but emphasizes that weigh-ins are crucial. He notes OSP's recent weight misses and injuries, but believes OSP has been fighting better competition lately and giving a better account of himself. In contrast, Shogun is a shell of his former self, with poor performances in his last three fights. Cody thinks OSP's recent activity and level of competition give him the edge, despite the weight concerns.

Daniel Levi picks Shogun Rua as a slight underdog, acknowledging he is a fanboy but also seeing a path to victory. He thinks Shogun has the better process and technique, and may be more motivated after being knocked out quickly in their first fight. However, he is not confident because Shogun's durability is a major concern. He considers a small half-unit bet on Shogun moneyline but does not commit to a bet in the transcript.

The host picks Ovince Saint Preux to win by knockout, likely early. He references their first fight where OSP starched Shogun in 34 seconds. He notes Shogun's age and slowed striking, and OSP's desire to replicate the finish. He prefers betting 'fight doesn't go to decision' at similar odds to OSP moneyline, and likes OSP round 1 at +200. He expects OSP to land on Shogun's chin and put him out.

Paul does not make a clear pick for this fight. He discusses OSP's weight issues and Shogun's decline, noting that OSP hasn't looked great and Shogun is a shell of himself. He considers it a dogger pass situation and cannot pull the trigger on Shogun. He does not express a preference for either fighter.

Angelo picks Khaos Williams due to his power and durability, despite acknowledging that Randy Brown is the more technical striker with better grappling. He notes that two of Brown's three UFC losses are by knockout and that Williams has the takedown defense to keep it standing.

Big Brady picks Khaos Williams to win by second-round knockout. He believes Williams has the power, volume, and durability advantage. Brown is the more skilled striker and grappler, but he has been finished in three of his four losses, including two by knockout. Williams has never been finished and hits hard. Brady thinks Brown will get hit a lot and eventually get knocked out. He expects a war and favors the fighter with more power and durability.

Cody leans towards Randy Brown, calling it a dogger pass situation. He is encouraged by Brown's recent performances, especially his use of length and range. Cody notes that Brown's losses are to high-level guys and that he seems to be turning a corner. He contrasts Williams' power but stalled progression, and believes Brown's volume and reach will be key. Cody acknowledges it's a close matchup but favors Brown.

Daniel Levi picks Randy Brown confidently, calling it his first bet of the night at 1.5 units at +115. He believes Brown's volume, movement, and length will be key, and that Brown is in his prime with experience against top competition. He respects Khaos Williams' power but thinks Brown can outwork him over three rounds. He notes that Brown's last performances show he has turned a corner.

The host picks Randy Brown, believing he is the better striker with superior movement, leg kicks, and output. He expects Brown to keep Khaos Williams at range and avoid his power shots. He notes Brown's Muay Thai clinch and jiu-jitsu are also advantages. He thinks Williams will get frustrated and rely on power, but Brown's discipline and cardio will carry him to a decision win. He disagrees with Williams being the favorite.

Paul picks Randy Brown as an underdog at +100. He notes that Brown has been improving, using his length and range effectively with a good jab and low kick. Paul believes Brown's chin held up well against Jared Gooden and that he is more well-rounded. He thinks if the fight becomes a volume affair, Brown edges it out, and Brown's grappling could be an advantage. Paul is confident in Brown's path to victory.

The MMA Guru picks Khaos Williams, despite acknowledging Brown is more technical. He believes Williams' power and leg kicks will be decisive, and that Brown's chin is suspect, having been KO'd before. He predicts Williams will chop at the legs early and land a big KO in the second round, possibly when Brown is ahead on the scorecards. He notes Williams is young and improving.

Angelo picks Francisco Trinaldo, continuing to ride the Trinaldo train. He likes the matchup because Danny Roberts won't initiate takedowns and has poor takedown defense. He acknowledges Trinaldo's age but believes his chin is still intact, though he notes Roberts has the power to test it.

Big Brady picks Danny Roberts to win by decision, but he is leaning and not confident. He notes that Trinaldo is 43 years old and small for welterweight, while Roberts is nine years younger, taller, and has a reach advantage. However, Roberts has shown poor fight IQ and durability issues, being finished in all his losses. Brady thinks the youth and size advantage will be decisive, but it's a close fight and he cannot be confident. He expects a competitive decision.

Cody picks Danny Roberts as his second underdog. He notes that Roberts is faster, has better footwork, and higher output. Cody believes Roberts can win the first two rounds and survive the third. He acknowledges Roberts' history of bonehead decisions but thinks the big cage and Sanford MMA game plan will help. Cody sees it as a close fight that could go either way.

Daniel Levi leans toward Danny Roberts as a slight underdog, citing Roberts' size, power, and prime age versus the 44-year-old Trinaldo. He acknowledges Trinaldo's durability and experience but thinks age may finally catch up. He plans to bet one unit on Roberts if the line improves to around +105 or +110, but has not placed the bet yet.

The host picks Danny Roberts but is not betting the fight. He believes Roberts is the better fighter at this stage, younger and faster, and should outpoint Trinaldo. However, he acknowledges Trinaldo's knockout power and Roberts' questionable chin. He mentions a possible Trinaldo KO prop at +450 to +550 as a small shot. He is staying away from betting due to the volatility.

Paul picks Francisco Trinaldo, despite acknowledging that Roberts will likely be winning early. He believes Trinaldo's durability and power will eventually catch Roberts, similar to the Jai Herbert fight. Paul notes that Roberts has a suspect chin and Trinaldo can land a big left hand late. He expects Trinaldo to be losing on the scorecards before getting a finish.

The MMA Guru hesitantly picks Danny Roberts as an underdog, acknowledging Roberts' history of being KO'd but noting Trinaldo's age (43) and lack of power at welterweight. He believes Roberts' reach and rangy style will allow him to fight patiently and win a close decision. He mentions Roberts has momentum with a couple of wins and confidence, while Trinaldo hasn't had many finishes recently. He predicts a razor-close 29-28 decision.

Angelo picks Norma Dumont, liking her to crowd Macy and light her up in the pocket. He thinks Dumont will work takedowns against the cage but expects a striking match. He notes that the odds are wide and Dumont should be around -130, not -270.

Big Brady picks Norma Dumont to win by decision. He believes Dumont is the more well-rounded fighter with good striking and grappling. Chiasson has a size advantage in height and reach, but her takedown defense is a liability, as seen against Renaud and Lansberg. Dumont can mix in takedowns and control Chiasson on the mat. Brady thinks the line is wide but agrees Dumont should be the favorite. He expects a competitive fight on the feet but Dumont's path to victory is through takedowns and control.

Cody picks Norma Dumont but is not confident at -225. He notes that Chiasson is moving up to 145 and has defensive liabilities. Dumont has a slight grappling and striking advantage, and her technical boxing is sharper. However, Cody thinks the price is too high and that the fight is closer to a coin flip. He will keep an eye on weigh-ins.

Daniel Levi picks Norma Dumont confidently, citing her fundamentals, jab, leg kicks, and well-rounded game. He questions Chiasson's mental toughness and heart, noting she has been outworked despite size advantages. He expects Dumont to win a decision. However, he does not bet the fight because he does not want to lay -220.

The host picks Norma Dumont, believing she is the better striker and physically strong enough to negate Chiasson's bullying style. He notes Chiasson's success comes from being the bigger fighter, but Dumont is thick and strong. He expects Dumont to land the more significant strikes and possibly get a knockdown. He is not keen on betting Dumont at -220 but prefers the decision prop at +100. He also likes 'fight goes to decision' at -220.

Paul does not make a clear pick. He is torn on this fight and mentions liking the under 2.5 rounds at +180. He notes that Dumont has won by cage control and greasy decisions, but he doesn't love the fight. He does not express a preference for either fighter.

The MMA Guru picks Norma Dumont, praising her technical boxing as some of the best in women's MMA above strawweight. He notes she beat Felicia Spencer and had a close fight with Raquel Pennington. He believes Dumont will pick Chiasson apart at range for three rounds, winning 30-27. He mentions he bet on Dumont.

Angelo picks Brandon Royval, citing his forward pressure and sneaky grappling as the difference. He notes that both fighters are willing to bang but Royval is a better pure grappler. He expects a potential fight of the night.

Big Brady picks Brandon Royval to win by first-round knockout. He believes this is a nightmare matchup for Schnell because Royval will force a brawl, and Schnell has a history of being knocked out (by Font, Sandoval, Pantoja). Schnell has changed his style to be more cautious, but Royval's pressure will drag him into a war. Royval has the striking advantage, durability, and dangerous ground game. Schnell is not a strong offensive wrestler, so he cannot exploit Royval's poor takedown defense. Brady expects Royval to finish Schnell in brutal fashion in the first round.

Cody picks Brandon Royval, noting that Schnell's chin is suspect and Royval's unorthodox striking and grappling are at a higher level. He points out that Royval has wins over Tim Elliott and Kai Kara-France, while Schnell has beaten lower-level opposition. Cody believes Royval can win standing or on the ground, and expects a stoppage. He is confident in Royval as one of his key plays.

Daniel Levi picks Brandon Royval confidently, though he does not bet due to the high price. He likes Royval's pace, pressure, and opportunistic submissions. He notes Schnell is technically sound but lacks durability and takedown ability. He considers a KO prop for Royval at +460 but does not pull the trigger.

The host picks Royval to win but prefers betting the under 2.5 rounds at -145. He highlights Royval's chaotic style that overwhelms opponents, using the Kai Kara-France fight as an example. He notes Schnell is technically better but will struggle with Royval's pace and unpredictability. He acknowledges Royval leaves himself vulnerable to submissions, but expects the fight to end inside the distance, likely with Royval winning. He is concerned about Royval's price at -235 and prefers the under.

Paul picks Brandon Royval and is also interested in the under 2.5 rounds. He notes that Schnell has chin issues and Royval's volume and pace could clip him. Paul thinks Royval can get a finish, but also acknowledges that Royval's own pace could lead to him wilting. He likes the 'fight doesn't go to decision' prop and plans to parlay it with the Cerrone-Lauzon under.

The MMA Guru picks Brandon Royval, citing his wildness and finishing ability. He notes Royval has good submissions and KO power, and believes he will bait Schnell into a scrap and catch him. He criticizes Schnell's chin and predictable style. He predicts a first-round TKO, possibly via spinning elbow.

Angelo picks Blagoy Ivanov, citing his iron chin and combat sambo background. He believes Ivanov's chin will frustrate de Lima and that if Ivanov gets a takedown, he will have a clear advantage on top. He notes that six of de Lima's seven losses are by submission, providing a clear path.

Big Brady picks Blagoy Ivanov to win by second-round submission. He notes that de Lima is dangerous early with power and leg kicks, but he fades and has poor takedown defense (47%) and submission defense. Ivanov is extremely durable, having eaten shots from heavy hitters and survived a stabbing. Brady thinks de Lima will win the first round but Ivanov will take over in the second, taking de Lima down and submitting him. He compares it to the Struve fight where Struve submitted de Lima after nearly being finished.

Cody picks Blagoy Ivanov, emphasizing his incredible durability (survived stabbing, fought Fedor, Derrick Lewis). He notes that de Lima has poor cardio, weak submission defense, and relies on early power. Cody believes Ivanov can take de Lima's best shots and then take over as de Lima fades. He sees Ivanov's takedown defense and chin as decisive factors.

Daniel Levi picks Blagoy Ivanov by decision, citing his durability and never being finished. He notes de Lima is powerful early but fades and has low volume. He worries about Ivanov's own low output but thinks he can grind out a win. He does not bet the fight.

The host picks Blagoy Ivanov, citing his durability and ability to survive de Lima's early power. He notes Ivanov's chin held up against heavy hitters like Derrick Lewis. He expects Ivanov to weather the first round, then wear on de Lima and finish him later. He likes the round 3 prop at +1000 and decision prop at +185. He plans to bet 1.4-1.5 units on Ivanov moneyline, acknowledging the layoff risk but believing Ivanov is rightly favored and could be even shorter.

Paul picks Blagoy Ivanov, surprised the line is so close. He notes that Ivanov is durable and has never been finished, while de Lima gasses and has poor takedown defense. Paul believes Ivanov's takedown defense and chin will be key, and that de Lima's only path is an early knockout. He expects Ivanov to win by decision or late stoppage.

The MMA Guru picks Blagoy Ivanov, trusting his granite chin and consistency against a higher level of competition. He notes Ivanov went five rounds with JDS and arguably beat Derrick Lewis. He criticizes de Lima's inconsistency and believes Ivanov will grind out a close 29-28 decision by pressuring and winning stand-up exchanges. He dismisses the height difference as not significant.

Big Brady picks André Fialho to win by first-round knockout. He believes this is a massive mismatch, as VanCamp is stepping up in competition and Fialho has fought tougher opponents. Fialho has excellent takedown defense and devastating power, as shown in his knockout of Miguel Baeza. VanCamp will want to take the fight down but will struggle to do so. Brady expects Fialho to starch VanCamp in the first round, noting that Fialho's power is some of the best in the division.

Cody picks André Fialho, noting that VanCamp has fought low-level competition and is hittable. Fialho is a power puncher who has improved his chin and cardio. Cody points out that Fialho knocked out Miguel Baeza and is still young (28). He expects Fialho to clip VanCamp and finish him, though the price is high.

Daniel Levi picks André Fialho confidently, expecting a first-round knockout. He notes Fialho's power and activity, and that VanCamp is a low-level regional fighter who does not belong at UFC level. He thinks Fialho will cover the -400 price tag. He does not bet due to the high price but is confident in the pick.

The host picks Fialho to win by first-round knockout but is hesitant due to Fialho's poor performance in longer fights. He notes VanCamp's all-action style and submission threat. He thinks the line is too wide but still expects Fialho to land early. His favorite bet is 'fight doesn't go to decision' at -300, citing both fighters' high finish rates (30 of 39 fights finished inside distance). He also mentions a possible VanCamp submission prop if plus money.

Paul picks André Fialho, agreeing with Cody that Fialho should win. He notes that VanCamp is making his UFC debut against a power puncher and has defensive liabilities. Paul believes Fialho's power and experience will be too much, and that VanCamp's head movement is poor. He expects a Fialho knockout.

Angelo picks Tracy Cortez based on her wrestling, expecting her to grind out a decision. However, he admits his bet will be on Melissa Gatto to win inside the distance (decision no action), indicating a lack of full confidence in Cortez. He notes Cortez's layoff and Gatto's submission threat.

Big Brady picks Tracy Cortez to win by decision, but he is hesitant. He acknowledges that Gatto has shown impressive striking and grappling, but her takedown defense is poor. Cortez will look to take Gatto down and control her, and Brady believes she will succeed in getting takedowns. However, Gatto is dangerous off her back with submissions, so Cortez will have to fight off submissions for 15 minutes. Brady thinks Cortez will win by controlling the fight on the ground, but he would not count out Gatto completely.

Cody picks Tracy Cortez, but emphasizes monitoring the scales. He notes Cortez's wrestling advantage and that she trains at Fight Ready MMA. Cody believes Cortez can get takedowns and stay on top, avoiding Gatto's submissions. He thinks Gatto's guard is active but Cortez's wrestling and pace will prevail. Cody is confident if Cortez makes weight.

Daniel Levi leans toward Melissa Gatto as an underdog, citing her cleaner striking, power, and opportunistic submissions. He expects Cortez to have early wrestling success but thinks Gatto can survive and turn the fight in later rounds. He is worried about Cortez's top control but sees value in Gatto at plus money. He has not bet yet, noting he missed better lines.

The host picks Melissa Gatto but is not betting the fight due to volatility. He notes Cortez's strong wrestling but concerns about her weight miss and cardio. He highlights Gatto's impressive UFC performances, her ability to work from bottom, and her vicious striking. He expects Gatto to pressure, attack the body, and possibly find a submission or win via striking. He acknowledges Cortez will land takedowns but thinks Gatto will do enough to win.

Paul picks Melissa Gatto as an underdog at +147. He believes the fight is more 50/50 and that Gatto's grappling is legit, with an active guard and submission threats. He fears Cortez's wrestling could control the fight, but thinks Gatto's strength and jiu-jitsu could lead to a submission. Paul acknowledges the Arizona home cooking factor but took the dog shot.

The MMA Guru picks Melissa Gatto as an underdog, citing her underrated skills, youth, and physical advantages. He notes Gatto has a reach advantage, submission ability, and finishing power, as seen in her wins over Carol Rosa and Sijara Eubanks. He criticizes Cortez for pitter-patter striking and lack of finishing ability. He predicts Gatto will win on the feet and then secure a submission, possibly an armbar in the second round.

Angelo picks C.J. Vergara despite the bookies favoring Kleydson Rodrigues. He believes Vergara can get inside Rodrigues' looping punches and beat him to the punch. He notes that Vergara is a beast in the clinch but worries about Rodrigues' takedowns from the clinch. He references Vergara's striking output in his UFC debut.

Big Brady picks Kleydson Rodrigues to win by decision. He is impressed by Rodrigues' striking volume, mixing kicks to the legs, body, and head. Vergara is tough and had a close fight with Ode Osbourne, but Rodrigues is a much tougher matchup on the feet. Rodrigues has good get-up game if taken down. Brady thinks Rodrigues has more tools and will outwork Vergara over three rounds, though the -280 price is steep. He expects a decision win for Rodrigues.

Cody picks Kleydson Rodrigues, calling him a promising prospect with excellent technique. He notes Rodrigues' knees, elbows, and cardio, and that he improves as the fight goes on. Cody contrasts Vergara's straight-line movement and poor footwork. He believes Rodrigues will outwork Vergara and likely win a decision.

Daniel Levi picks Kleydson Rodrigues confidently, though he does not bet due to the high price. He likes Rodrigues' athleticism, kicks, and takedown defense, and thinks he has a much higher ceiling than Vergara. He acknowledges Vergara's toughness and cardio but expects Rodrigues to win. He does not bet at -350.

The host is very high on Kleydson Rodrigues, calling him a future top 5-7 flyweight. He praises his striking and jiu-jitsu, though notes cardio is questionable. He dismisses C.J. Vergara as a solid striker but not UFC caliber, pointing to Vergara's close decisions and draws on the regional scene. He expects Rodrigues to win via decision, as Vergara is durable. He might include Rodrigues in a parlay.

Paul picks Kleydson Rodrigues, impressed by his defensive capabilities and well-rounded game. He notes that Rodrigues barely got hit on the Contender Series and has good striking defense. Paul believes Vergara is limited, throwing looping left hooks, and that Rodrigues will cover the price tag. He acknowledges the debut nerves but is confident.

The MMA Guru picks Kleydson Rodrigues, praising his unorthodox style and power. He believes Rodrigues' movement and kicks will keep Vergara guessing, and that Vergara may become overwhelmed. He predicts Rodrigues will win the first two rounds, possibly scoring a knockdown, and win 29-28. He notes Rodrigues is a big, powerful flyweight at 26 years old.

Angelo picks Loopy Godinez but expresses hesitation, noting that Carnelossi is hard to push around and that Godinez may struggle to get the fight to the ground. He compares the matchup to Carnelossi's previous fights where she won despite losing exchanges. He mentions he may switch his pick after weigh-ins.

Big Brady picks Loopy Godinez to win by decision, but he is leaning and flip-flopped. He thinks the striking is competitive, with Carnelossi having power and volume, but Godinez has better wrestling. Godinez showed good takedowns against Loma Lookboonmee, and Carnelossi has poor takedown defense (25%). Brady believes Godinez can get takedowns and control the fight on top. However, Carnelossi is dangerous and strong, making this a close fight. He edges Godinez but with little confidence.

Cody picks Lupita Godinez, citing her excellent wrestling and technical striking. He notes that Godinez consistently scores multiple takedowns and controls fights. Carnelossi's takedown defense is suspect, and even if she keeps it standing, Godinez has the striking advantage. Cody believes Godinez's wrestling, cardio, and pace will be decisive, and the -170 price is reasonable.

Daniel Levi picks Ariane Carnelossi as a slight underdog, expecting her to pull away down the stretch. He thinks Carnelossi's power and volume will be decisive if she can get back up from takedowns. He is not confident because Godinez may blanket her with wrestling. He does not bet the fight.

The host is very high on Loopy Godinez, calling this his bread and butter spot with a minus 180 favorite in women's MMA. He highlights Godinez's technical wrestling advantage over Carnelossi, who has suspect takedown defense. He expects Godinez to mix in striking to set up takedowns, then grind on top and possibly find a submission. He warns against Godinez striking too much but trusts her boxing if needed. He is considering making this his lock of the night play.

Paul does not make a clear pick. He considered Carnelossi at +200 but the line moved to +150, which scared him off. He notes that Carnelossi's win over Naliang was unimpressive as Naliang gassed. Paul calls it a dogger pass situation and does not express a preference.

The MMA Guru picks Loopy Godinez, trusting her well-rounded skills and potential. He notes that Godinez beat Loma Lookboonmee, who he considers one of the better strawweights, and that her only UFC loss came when moving up in weight. He criticizes Carnelossi's competition and implies she may be using performance-enhancing drugs. He believes Godinez has good enough grappling and striking to win, and that Carnelossi hasn't impressed him.

Angelo gives a slight lean to Fernie Garcia, acknowledging that Garcia is the more technical fighter and uses wrestling better than Newson. However, he worries that Garcia's contender series knockout might make him overconfident in striking exchanges. He hopes Garcia sticks to a wrestling game plan to secure a win.

Big Brady picks Journey Newson to win by decision as an underdog. He believes the line is off because Garcia is getting the contender series hype. Newson has fought tougher competition (Ricardo Ramos, Randy Costa) and is well-rounded with power and a BJJ black belt. Garcia is a good wrestler but has low power and is hittable. Brady thinks the fight will be close on the feet, and Newson's experience gives him the edge. He expects Newson to win a competitive decision.

Cody picks Journey Newson as his third underdog. He notes that Garcia has been in many split decisions and lacks finishing ability. Newson has power and could hurt Garcia if they exchange. Cody acknowledges the unknowns due to Newson's layoff but sees value at +130.

Daniel Levi picks Fernie Garcia, citing his durability and Mexican warrior spirit. He thinks Garcia can eat Newson's best shots and outlast him. He is not confident and does not like the price, so he does not bet. He notes Newson is a liability to get dropped.

The host believes Journey Newson is being disrespected as the underdog. He notes Newson's good jiu-jitsu and takedown ability, and expects him to take the fight to the ground to counter Fernie Garcia's striking pressure. He criticizes Garcia's close decision fights and mediocre competition. He predicts Newson wins via decision or submission.

Paul leans towards Journey Newson as an underdog. He notes that Newson kept it competitive against Ricardo Ramos and has power. Paul thinks Garcia is a boxer by trade but this is MMA, and Newson's power could be a factor. He is not fully confident but prefers Newson.

The MMA Guru picks Fernie Garcia, citing his favorite status and belief that he will win by TKO early in the first round. He notes that Journey Newson has been KO'd multiple times and lacks the physicality to keep up with Garcia. He also trusts Garcia's chin due to his ethnicity, suggesting he doesn't get KO'd easily. He predicts Garcia will put Newson away against the cage in the first round.