UFC 285: Jones vs. Gane

Angelo leans towards Ciryl Gane due to Jon Jones' three-year layoff, weight gain, and poor performance in his last fight. He notes that Gane is a technical striker with great footwork and that Jones struggled with wrestling against Dominick Reyes. Angelo is not betting on this fight.

Big Brady picks Jon Jones but is hesitant due to many red flags: a three-year layoff, lackluster recent performances, and moving up to heavyweight. He notes Gane's takedown defense was exposed by Ngannou, and Jones is a great wrestler. He predicts a decision win for Jones, but advises against betting on the fight due to uncertainty.

Cody is very reluctant to take Jones at -160 given the three-year layoff, recent disinterested performances, and move up to heavyweight. He sees Gane as a legitimate heavyweight who fought Francis Ngannou closely, but worries about Gane's wrestling after Ngannou took him down. He ultimately takes the plus money on Gane but will wait for weigh-ins to see Jones's physique.

Connor picks Jones but with significant hesitation. He believes Jones's forward pressure and consistent use of a few tools (lead hook, body kick, side kick) over five rounds will be enough to edge out Gane, despite Jones's decline in activity and wrestling. He expects a close, boring fight where Jones may get hurt but ultimately wins a decision or via a takedown from a Gane error. He notes Gane's poor defensive footwork and tendency to fall apart when pressured, but acknowledges Jones's own defensive flaws and the risk of Gane's jab and kicks.

Jacob is confident in Ciryl Gane, stating that on the feet, Gane will embarrass Jones with his footwork and speed. He believes Jones will struggle to get takedowns because Gane will be ready for them. Jacob thinks Gane will pick Jones apart and win.

Jones is a dominant wrestler with unorthodox striking and a championship mindset. Gane is a slick striker but has shown vulnerability to wrestling, as seen against Francis Ngannou. Jones will drag the fight to the ground and use his top pressure and ground and pound to win. The weight gain shouldn't be detrimental.

Paul picks Jon Jones but says it's a stay away from a betting perspective. He believes Jones's wrestling will be the difference, as Gane was taken down by Ngannou. However, he acknowledges the many question marks around Jones and cannot bet him at -170. He thinks Jones will win but won't put money on it.

The MMA Guru picks Ciryl Gane to upset Jon Jones, citing Jones' long layoff (over 3 years) and recent close fights. He believes Gane's range, leg kicks, and patience will trouble Jones, and that Jones' takedowns won't be as effective at heavyweight. He predicts a decision win for Gane.

Zane favors Gane, assuming the fight becomes a slow-paced kickboxing match where Gane's consistency, jab, and kicking variety give him the edge. He doubts Jones's wrestling will be effective due to poor entries and a clench that has deteriorated. He notes Gane's defensive flaws and potential unforced errors (like a bad takedown attempt) could cost him, but overall sees Gane as the more reliable striker at range.

Angelo is confident in Valentina Shevchenko, stating she is better everywhere and will push Grasso around. He notes that Grasso is not a dangerous fighter and that Shevchenko should have no issues. Angelo sees this as a relief fight for Shevchenko after the Talia Santos fight.

Big Brady is confident in Valentina Shevchenko, citing her superior striking and grappling. He notes Grasso has struggled with grappling in the past, and Shevchenko can take her down at will and dominate on the mat. He predicts a third-round TKO for Shevchenko, dismissing the idea that Grasso can pull off an upset.

Cody believes Shevchenko is nearly unbeatable at 125 and that Grasso lacks the grappling to exploit her. He notes Shevchenko's takedown ability and well-rounded game will be too much. He expects a decision win for Shevchenko but won't bet the -700 moneyline; he would parlay it.

Connor is confident Shevchenko wins, citing her ability to control distance and bully opponents in the clinch. He notes Grasso's poor range fighting and lack of feints or timing variation, which will make it easy for Shevchenko to counter or clinch. He believes Grasso's only path is a knockout in the pocket or a submission from her back, both unlikely. He mentions Shevchenko's declining athleticism but says Grasso's stylistic shortcomings are a death sentence.

Jacob picks Valentina Shevchenko, but notes that Grasso's volume striking could cause problems early. He believes Shevchenko may need to use her wrestling to dominate. Jacob acknowledges a path for Grasso but ultimately sees Shevchenko as the more complete fighter.

Shevchenko is a fast, explosive striker with a good ground game. Grasso is a good striker but has struggled with takedowns. Shevchenko will likely take the fight to the ground and control Grasso, winning a decision or possibly a TKO finish.

Paul picks Shevchenko but prefers the over 4.5 rounds at plus money. He notes Grasso has improved grappling and has never been finished outside of a submission loss to Suarez. He sees the fight going the distance and thinks the over is a solid bet.

The MMA Guru picks Valentina Shevchenko, believing her kicks will be the difference. He notes Grasso's boxing is good but she doesn't throw many kicks, and Shevchenko's top game could also be a factor. He predicts a decision win.

Zane agrees Shevchenko wins, emphasizing that Grasso's lack of distance management and predictable entries will lead to Shevchenko's clinch bullying. He notes Grasso is a good pocket boxer but cannot get there safely, and Shevchenko's takedown defense is weak but Grasso lacks the strength to exploit it. He sees Shevchenko's consistent game plan overwhelming Grasso.

Angelo is confident in Shavkat Rakhmonov, calling him an absolute savage who can submit, knock out, or outwrestle opponents. He notes that Rakhmonov is on a different level and should get the job done. Angelo thinks -500 is fine for parlays.

Big Brady picks Shavkat Rakhmonov, citing his size, power, and submission game. He notes Neal has good takedown defense but was taken down by Neil Magny, and Rakhmonov is a better wrestler. He predicts a second-round submission for Rakhmonov, but acknowledges if the fight stays standing, it gets interesting.

Cody is high on Rakhmonov, calling him 'the truth' and praising his well-rounded game, clinch work, and finishing ability. He thinks Neal's power is a threat but that Rakhmonov's grappling and fight IQ will be too much. He expects Rakhmonov to win but is unsure if he finishes Neal.

Connor picks Rakhmonov confidently, noting Neal's limited toolkit (left hand, left kick) and inability to adjust. He expects Rakhmonov to use his creativity and clinch work to overwhelm Neal, who will likely run into clinches where Rakhmonov can wrestle and land strikes. He acknowledges Neal's toughness and power but sees the matchup as stylistically poor for Neal.

Jacob is confident in Shavkat Rakhmonov, noting that his toughest test on paper was Neil Magny, whom he dominated. He believes Rakhmonov is too rangy and skilled for Geoff Neal, who relies on power. Jacob expects a first or second round finish.

Rakhmonov is a pressure grappler with a 100% finish rate. Neal is a good striker but has struggled against pressure grapplers. Rakhmonov will take the fight to the ground and submit Neal. The fight doesn't go to decision.

Paul agrees with Cody that Rakhmonov is the truth and expects him to win. He notes Neal's takedown defense is good but thinks Rakhmonov is a different level. He likes the over 1.5 takedowns prop for Rakhmonov.

The MMA Guru picks Shavkat Rakhmonov, despite noting the odds are too wide. He questions Neal's recent performances and believes Rakhmonov's wild style and grappling will be too much, though he acknowledges Neal's KO power.

Zane agrees, highlighting Neal's predictability and lack of adaptability. He notes Rakhmonov's willingness to experiment and clinch, and that Neal's straight-line entries will lead to clinches where Rakhmonov can dominate. He sees Neal's only path as an early knockout, but Rakhmonov's size and confidence make that unlikely.

Angelo is confident in Mateusz Gamrot, citing his relentless wrestling, cardio, and ability to get takedowns. He notes that Jalin Turner has been taken down by lesser wrestlers and that Gamrot's speed and ankle picks will be too much. Angelo has a moneyline bet on Gamrot at -190.

Big Brady picks Mateusz Gamrot, citing his wrestling machine style with high takedown volume. He notes Turner's takedown defense is not elite and Gamrot has the cardio to attempt many takedowns. He predicts a decision win for Gamrot, though he acknowledges Turner's power and submission threat.

Cody is tempted by Turner as an underdog. He sees a path for Turner if he can keep the fight standing and use his reach. He notes Gamrot's wrestling is elite but that he has been in close fights and can fatigue. He says if he takes Turner, he'll be the PRP pick.

Connor leans Gamrot, citing his relentless wrestling, cardio, and scrambling ability. He notes Turner's dangerous striking and guillotine threats, but believes Gamrot's takedowns and top control will neutralize Turner's offense. He mentions Turner's tendency to play guard rather than explode up, which may allow Gamrot to hold him down. However, he acknowledges Turner's one-shot knockout power makes this risky.

Jacob picks Mateusz Gamrot, praising his relentless pressure and unique ankle pick takedowns. He believes Turner will not be able to defend the takedowns and that Gamrot will drown him. Jacob has hedges with Turner by knockout but is confident in Gamrot.

Gamrot is a high-level scrambler and wrestler who wants to drag fights to the ground. Turner is dangerous with submissions but has questionable takedown defense and struggles off his back. Gamrot will secure takedowns and grind out a decision victory.

Paul picks Gamrot but is cautious. He thinks Gamrot's wrestling will be enough to secure takedowns and win rounds, but he has questions about Turner's cardio and reach. He expects a close fight and is not confident in the pick.

The MMA Guru picks Mateusz Gamrot, citing Turner's loss to Matt Frevola via grappling. He believes Gamrot can implement a wrestling-heavy game plan and win a 30-27 decision, noting Turner's preparation for a striker.

Zane also leans Gamrot, emphasizing his toughness and wrestling. He notes Turner's danger in transitions and his ability to land fight-ending strikes, but believes Gamrot's pressure and scrambling will wear Turner down. He points out that Turner's takedown defense is inconsistent and that Gamrot's low single may bypass Turner's guillotine attempts.

Angelo is certain Bo Nickal will win, stating he will wrestle immediately and finish the fight. He notes that the odds are extremely high and there is no value, but Nickal is the closest thing to a guarantee in the sport. Angelo advises against betting due to the poor odds.

Big Brady is extremely confident in Bo Nickal, calling him a next-level wrestler with power and submission ability. He notes Jamie Pickett has poor takedown defense and has been submitted before. He predicts a first-round submission for Nickal, welcoming him to the UFC.

Cody is confident Nickal wins inside the distance, likely by submission. He thinks Nickal will overwhelm Pickett early and finish him in the first round. He recommends under 1.5 rounds and says Nickal ends up on parlay tickets.

Connor is extremely confident Nickal wins, calling it a soft touch. He notes Pickett is a good athlete but easily cowed by superior athletes, with poor body language and a tendency to crumble. He expects Nickal to finish via TKO or submission, though Pickett may avoid submission briefly.

Jacob agrees that Bo Nickal will win, but questions whether Nickal will go for a quick takedown or try to show off his striking. He notes that Jamie Pickett folds under pressure and that this matchup was made for a reason. Jacob sees no value in betting on Nickal at these odds.

Nickal is a decorated wrestler with good submissions. Pickett is on a two-fight losing streak and likely fighting for his job. Nickal will get a takedown and submit him in the first round. Look for early finishing props.

Paul agrees Nickal will win easily but notes the odds are too short to bet the moneyline. He mentions the under 1.5 rounds is heavily juiced and considers a small sprinkle on the over as a contrarian play, but ultimately expects a quick finish.

The MMA Guru picks Bo Nickal to win by first-round submission, likely a rear-naked choke. He criticizes Pickett's lack of quality wins and believes Nickal's wrestling will be too much.

Zane agrees, calling Pickett a 'gentle giant' who crumbles under pressure. He notes Pickett was submitted by Kyle Daukaus and TKO'd by Jordan Wright, so a finish is probable. He sees no path for Pickett.

Angelo picks Cody Garbrandt because he is the better fighter everywhere, but he is not betting on him due to his questionable chin. He notes that Garbrandt dominates until he gets hit, and Trevin Jones has real power. Angelo hopes Garbrandt can have a resurgence like Glover Teixeira.

Big Brady picks Cody Garbrandt but is hesitant due to his chin issues. He notes Garbrandt is the much better fighter with speed, volume, and wrestling, but his durability is a major concern. He acknowledges Trevin Jones has power and has never been knocked out. He predicts a decision win for Garbrandt, but admits a knockout loss wouldn't be surprising.

Cody picks Garbrandt but is very hesitant due to his compromised chin. He thinks Garbrandt's wrestling and technical boxing give him the edge, and that Jones's low volume and lack of setup make him less dangerous. He expects Garbrandt to win by decision if he fights smart.

Connor picks Trevin Jones because he doubts Cody Garbrandt's ability to stick to a disciplined, low-risk gameplan. He notes that Garbrandt has never shown he can fight a patient, three-round kickboxing match without getting frustrated and aggressive, which plays into Jones's counter-punching strengths. Connor also points out that Garbrandt's durability has declined, making him vulnerable to getting caught and finished.

Jacob picks Cody Garbrandt as the better fighter but is wary of his chin and tendency to load up. He believes Garbrandt should use a point-fighting strategy and mix in takedowns. Jacob will not bet on Garbrandt and needs to see him prove his chin again.

Garbrandt has a huge technical striking advantage and should be able to beat Jones to the punch. However, his durability is a major concern and Jones has power. Garbrandt likely wins by second round KO or decision, but it's stressful to bet on him as a favorite.

Paul has a small sprinkle on Garbrandt by decision at +500. He thinks Garbrandt's wrestling and smart game plan could lead to a decision win, but acknowledges the chin risk. He says it's a dicey bet and he's prepared to lose.

The MMA Guru picks Trevin Jones as an underdog, citing Garbrandt's inactivity, multiple KO losses, and tendency to get caught. He believes Jones can catch Garbrandt on the chin and win by KO.

Zane also picks Trevin Jones, agreeing with Connor that Garbrandt's mental fragility and tendency to make mistakes under pressure make him unreliable. He emphasizes that Jones is tough, has good timing, and can capitalize on Garbrandt's lapses. Zane notes that while Garbrandt has the tools to win if he fights smart, history suggests he will revert to aggression and get caught.

Angelo leans towards Dricus du Plessis, despite acknowledging that Derek Brunson has a clear path to victory via wrestling. He is concerned about Brunson's age, chin, and cardio after his loss to Jared Cannonier. Angelo notes that du Plessis is dangerous and can blitz forward, and he believes Brunson may fold under pressure.

Big Brady picks Dricus du Plessis, citing his power and submission ability, and his ability to fight through fatigue. He notes Brunson's age (39), questionable chin, and talk of retirement. He predicts Brunson may have early success wrestling, but du Plessis will land a big shot and knock him out in the second round.

Cody expects du Plessis to win inside the distance. He notes Brunson's age (39), slowing reflexes, and tendency to get caught with his chin up. He thinks du Plessis's power and durability will be too much as the fight progresses.

Connor picks Derek Brunson, believing his superior wrestling and technical striking will allow him to control the fight. He notes that du Plessis is chaotic and willing to make catastrophic errors, which Brunson can exploit to get takedowns and dominate on the ground. However, Connor acknowledges that if Brunson slows down and du Plessis's relentless pressure takes over, Brunson could fall apart.

Jacob is confident in Dricus du Plessis, calling Brunson overrated and noting that his takedowns have come against weak wrestlers. He believes Brunson panics when hit and that du Plessis will spark him early. Jacob thinks Brunson will retire after this fight.

Du Plessis is an athletic freak with big power and explosiveness. Brunson is 39, has durability issues, and was knocked out by Jared Cannonier. Du Plessis will land big shots as the fight goes on and knock Brunson out.

Paul agrees with Cody, picking du Plessis inside the distance. He thinks Brunson will have early success but fade, and du Plessis will catch him. He likes the inside distance prop at -110.

The MMA Guru picks Dricus du Plessis to win by guillotine choke, citing du Plessis' underrated grappling and Brunson's tendency to shoot for panic takedowns. He believes du Plessis will finish Brunson in the second round.

Zane also picks Brunson, citing his technical advantages everywhere and the likelihood that he will get early takedowns against du Plessis's wild entries. He notes that du Plessis's wrestling is messy and he often puts himself in bad positions, which Brunson can capitalize on. Zane adds that while du Plessis has great cardio and durability, Brunson's power and top control should be enough to secure a win.

Angelo picks Amanda Ribas, citing her faster striking and better cardio. He notes that Viviane Araújo is more dangerous early but fades as the fight goes on. Angelo believes Ribas can point her way to a decision if she stays on the outside and works her striking.

Big Brady picks Viviane Araújo but is hesitant due to her cardio issues. He notes she has 90% takedown defense and is the better striker, but she tends to slow down after the first round. He predicts a 29-28 decision for Araújo, acknowledging Ribas may take the third round.

Cody picks Araújo, believing her takedown defense and striking will be enough to keep the fight standing and win rounds. He notes her cardio issues but thinks she can win two of three rounds. He sees value at plus money.

Connor picks Viviane Araújo, believing her improved striking and range management will allow her to outwork Ribas. He notes that Ribas's striking is technically poor and she relies on aggression and transitions, but Araújo's takedown defense is solid and she is a better athlete. Connor thinks Ribas will struggle to get the fight to the ground and will be picked apart on the feet.

Jacob picks Amanda Ribas but is scared, noting that Araújo is dangerous early and hits hard. He believes Ribas can take over in the second and third rounds as Araújo's cardio fades. Jacob does not have a straight bet on Ribas due to the risk.

Araújo is a solid striker with good power and leg kicks. Ribas has average striking and gets flustered against better strikers. Araújo's takedown defense should hold up, keeping the fight standing where she has the advantage, and she wins a decision.

Paul picks Ribas, citing her youth and takedown ability. He thinks she can get takedowns and control the fight. He acknowledges it's a close fight and won't bet it, but for picks he goes with Ribas.

The MMA Guru picks Amanda Ribas, citing her youth and potential versus Araújo's age. He believes Ribas has a submission advantage and a better chin, predicting a close 29-28 decision.

Zane also picks Araújo, agreeing that her improved striking and ability to stay at range will be key. He notes that Ribas's best wins are against lower-level competition and that her grappling success may not translate against Araújo's strong takedown defense. Zane adds that Araújo is more accurate and self-contained, and Ribas's aggressive style will leave her open to counters.

Angelo picks Julian Marquez, citing his toughness, power, and ability to snatch submissions in scrambles. He notes that Marquez hits harder and has proven MMA jiu-jitsu. Angelo believes Marquez will come forward and not quit, while Barriault can fold under pressure.

Big Brady picks Barriault, citing his volume, cardio, and pressure on the feet, as well as the ability to wrestle if needed. He notes Marquez has power and submissions but is less defensively sound. He predicts a decision win for Barriault, acknowledging Marquez's danger.

Cody picks Barriault, believing his volume and clinch work will overwhelm Marquez. He notes Marquez has declined in durability and explosiveness after injuries. He thinks Barriault wins by decision or late finish.

Connor picks Julian Marquez, despite concerns about his recent stylistic changes. He believes Marquez's natural dynamism and ability to fight through chaos will overcome Barriault's more methodical but less dynamic game. Connor notes that Barriault has improved but still lacks the finishing threat and creativity that Marquez possesses, and that Marquez's submission grappling could be a factor.

Jacob is very confident in Julian Marquez, stating that Barriault does not belong in the UFC. He notes Marquez's power, pressure, and no-quit attitude. Jacob believes Marquez will unload on Barriault against the fence and finish him. He also mentions that Marquez may use grappling more in this fight.

Barriault is a solid pressure fighter with good cardio and clinch work. Marquez has finishing power but his only path to victory is a KO, and he has been controlled in the clinch before. Barriault will use forward pressure and volume to win a decision, possibly with late finishing opportunities.

Paul picks Barriault and has a bet on Barriault by decision at +225. He thinks Marquez's wrestling won't be enough and Barriault's volume will carry him to a decision win.

The MMA Guru picks Marc-André Barriault, noting Marquez is wild and coming off a KO loss. He believes Barriault's technical style and ability to grind out decisions against wild opponents will lead to a 29-28 win.

Zane also picks Marquez, though he is not confident. He thinks Barriault's pressure and clinch work will force Marquez to abandon his new kickboxing approach and revert to brawling, which favors Marquez. Zane notes that Marquez is a dangerous submission grappler and has a knack for winning chaotic fights, but he worries about Marquez's recent overcorrection in style.

Angelo is confident in Ian Garry, noting his hand speed, footwork, and takedown defense. He believes Garry should dominate Song Kenan, who has been away for two years and has poor wrestling. Angelo expects a finish, possibly by knockout.

Big Brady is confident in Ian Garry, citing advantages in striking, speed, volume, and power. He notes Garry's wrestling and grappling are also strong, giving him multiple paths to victory. He mentions Song Kenan's two-year layoff and that he is smaller and older. He predicts a second-round knockout for Garry.

Cody picks Garry but notes he's not impressed with his performances. He thinks Garry's footwork and reach will be too much for Song Kenan, who is raw and has been off for two years. He expects Garry to win but won't bet the -800 moneyline.

Connor confidently picks Ian Garry, noting that Garry is a huge welterweight with a reach advantage and superior technical striking. He believes Garry will be too busy and too long for Song Kenan, who relies on opponents rushing him. Connor also points out that Song Kenan has a shaky chin and has been knocked out by lesser strikers, so Garry's power and precision should lead to a finish.

Jacob calls Ian Garry the biggest lock on the card, praising his clean striking, counter-striking, and ability to go three rounds. He believes Song Kenan lacks speed and that Garry will put him away early. Jacob is a big fan of Garry as a fighter despite his personality.

Garry is a disciplined striker with good range management and a sneaky trip game. Song Kenan has been inactive for over two years and struggles against technically superior strikers. Garry will jab him up and likely get a second or third round stoppage.

Paul picks Garry but is more interested in props. He likes the over 0.5 takedowns for Garry on PrizePicks, thinking Garry may mix in takedowns to show improvement. He notes the -800 moneyline offers no value.

The MMA Guru picks Ian Machado Garry to win by KO, citing Song Kenan's inactivity and multiple KO losses. He notes Garry's crisp hands and reach advantage, and believes Garry will finish him.

Zane also picks Garry confidently, agreeing that Garry's size, reach, and technical improvements make him a clear favorite. He notes that Song Kenan is a cautious, low-output fighter who needs opponents to make mistakes, but Garry is disciplined and will control the range. Zane expects Garry to win by knockout, as Song Kenan has been vulnerable to clean shots.

Angelo leans towards Leomana Martinez, citing his raw power, durability, and relentless pressure. He notes that Saaiman was losing his last fight before getting a late knockout and is relatively untested. Angelo is not confident enough to bet but sees value in Martinez as an underdog.

Big Brady picks Cameron Saaiman, highlighting his excellent cardio, pressure, and volume that breaks opponents. He notes Martinez has power but fades as the fight goes on, while Saaiman gets better. He predicts a third-round knockout for Saaiman, though he acknowledges Martinez's power makes it risky.

Cody picks Saaiman, citing his volume and durability. He thinks Martinez has power but low volume and questionable cardio. He expects Saaiman to take over as the fight goes on and win by decision or late TKO.

Connor picks Cameron Saaiman, though he is not very confident. He notes that Saaiman is a marginally better athlete than Martinez and has shown some functional aggression. However, he acknowledges that Martinez is tough, determined, and more comprehensive in his game, and that Saaiman's takedown defense and striking defense are poor. Connor thinks Saaiman's athleticism and willingness to push the pace might be enough.

Jacob picks Cameron Saaiman, citing his speed, pressure, and good scrambles. He notes that Martinez lacks volume and urgency at times, which could be his downfall. However, Jacob is not super high on Saaiman and is leaving him out of parlays due to the risk.

Saaiman is a scrappy fighter with good speed, footwork, and grappling reversals. Martinez has power but a clear ceiling and a recent camp change. Saaiman's skill set should nullify Martinez's threats and he wins by decision or late finish.

Paul picks Saaiman but is not confident at -300. He notes Saaiman looked green in his debut and Martinez has more UFC experience. He won't bet it but expects Saaiman to get the job done.

The MMA Guru picks Cameron Saaiman, praising his versatility in stand-up, clinch, and grappling. He notes Martinez is limited and that Saaiman has more ways to win, predicting a 29-28 decision.

Zane picks Leomana Martinez, reasoning that Martinez is a more complete martial artist who will pressure Saaiman and find good positions. He notes that Saaiman is reckless and disorganized, while Martinez is tough and will do a little bit of everything. Zane thinks Martinez's experience and composure will allow him to win a messy fight.

Angelo is confident in Tabatha Ricci, citing her strong grappling, top pressure, and submission skills. He notes that Jessica Penne has only 40% takedown defense and that Ricci should dominate with her wrestling. Angelo bet 1.5 units on Ricci at -240.

Big Brady picks Tabatha Ricci, noting her ability to dictate where the fight takes place with her wrestling and judo. He mentions Penne's poor takedown defense (40%) and that Ricci can safely grapple without getting caught in submissions. He predicts a decision win for Ricci, with the fight primarily on the mat.

Cody picks Ricci, citing her youth, judo, and well-rounded game. He thinks Penne is too old and has been off for four years. He expects Ricci to win by decision or submission.

Connor picks Tabatha Ricci, though he is not confident. He notes that Ricci is a high-level BJJ black belt and will likely take the fight to the ground, where Penne is actually good. However, he thinks Ricci's aggression and functional grappling will allow her to win positions and avoid being submitted. Connor admits the fight is hard to analyze and could go either way.

Jacob agrees with Angelo, comparing this fight to Ricci's previous win over Polyana Viana. He believes Penne is a step down in competition and that Ricci will dominate with her pressure and top control. Jacob is fully confident in Ricci.

Ricci is a high-level BJJ black belt with good wrestling and control time. Penne is 40, has poor striking, and relies on dragging fights to the ground, but Ricci will likely be on top and avoid submissions. Ricci grinds out a decision victory.

Paul agrees with Cody, picking Ricci. He notes the line has moved from -175 to -325, indicating sharp money. He thinks Ricci's grappling and youth will be too much for Penne.

The MMA Guru picks Tabatha Ricci, citing Jessica Penne's age (40) and Ricci's grappling advantage. He expects Ricci to control top position and win a split decision, noting that women's MMA judging often favors control time.

Zane also picks Ricci, agreeing that her functional aggression and grappling will be enough to overcome Penne's awkward style. He notes that Penne's striking is robotic and she struggles with range, while Ricci will close the distance and make it a grappling match. Zane thinks Ricci's speed and confidence give her an edge, but he is not fully convinced.

Angelo is confident in Farid Basharat, praising his impressive striking, foot movement, and wrestling. He notes that Basharat times his takedowns perfectly and can keep the fight standing if needed. The only concern is that Basharat was dropped in a previous fight, but he recovered quickly. Angelo believes Basharat can win on the feet or with wrestling.

Big Brady is confident in Farid Basharat, citing his well-rounded skills, good striking with head kicks and body kicks, and strong takedown defense. He believes Blackshear's path to victory is through grappling, but Basharat can dictate where the fight takes place and is the better striker. He predicts a decision win for Basharat.

Cody is high on Basharat, praising his well-rounded game and training with top guys. He thinks Blackshear's only path is takedowns, but Basharat's grappling defense and cardio will neutralize him. He expects a decision win or late TKO.

Connor picks Da'Mon Blackshear, believing his superior wrestling and scrambling will be the difference. He notes that Basharat is a willowy striker who often ends up on the ground, and Blackshear is a tough grappler who can outwork him there. Connor points out that Basharat's takedown defense and physicality are questionable, while Blackshear has proven durable against good grapplers.

Jacob is very high on Farid Basharat, believing he should keep the fight standing because Blackshear is most dangerous on the ground. He notes that Basharat has good top control and can avoid submissions. Jacob thinks this is a bad matchup for Blackshear and that Basharat will win.

Basharat is the better technical striker with good distance management and a jab. However, Blackshear is a seasoned veteran with experience against tough competition, and the line is too wide. Basharat should win by decision but it will be closer than the odds suggest.

Paul picks Basharat, noting his volume and skill advantage. He thinks Blackshear has never been finished but Basharat's output should win a clear decision. He won't bet the -450 but likes Basharat by decision prop.

The MMA Guru picks Farid Basharat, trusting his talent and crisp technique. He notes Blackshear is dangerous but has losses to lesser competition, and believes Basharat's skills will lead to a decision win, possibly 30-27 or 29-28.

Zane also picks Blackshear, though he is less confident. He agrees that Basharat's striking is not enough to keep the fight standing and that Blackshear's wrestling will be a problem. Zane notes that Basharat has shown some clever striking but tends to get taken down, and Blackshear is a strong scrambler. He thinks the odds are too wide and Blackshear has a good chance.

Angelo picks Loik Radzhabov based on his pressure, cardio, and non-stop wrestling, which he believes will be the difference. He notes that Radzhabov can push a pace for 15 minutes and has solid takedowns, but his striking can be sloppy and he gets tired. Angelo is hesitant because both fighters are making their UFC debut, making the outcome unpredictable, and he advises against betting on this fight.

Big Brady picks Esteban Ribovics as a dog despite Radzhabov being the favorite. He notes Radzhabov is on short notice and has questionable cardio, while Ribovics is dangerous everywhere with submissions and power. However, he acknowledges Ribovics is untested against good competition. He predicts a second-round KO for Ribovics.

Cody picks Radzhabov, citing his experience against higher-level competition in PFL. He thinks Ribovics' regional competition is too low level and his grappling defense is suspect. He expects Radzhabov to take him down and dominate.

Connor picks Loik Radzhabov, relying on his wrestling and durability. He notes that Ribovics is a heavy-handed puncher but has limited grappling, and Radzhabov has never been knocked out. Connor thinks that if Radzhabov can survive the early exchanges, he will take the fight to the clinch and use his Greco-Roman wrestling to control the fight. He acknowledges the risk of Ribovics landing a knockout.

Jacob picks Esteban Ribovics, citing Radzhabov's tendency to get tired and put his hands down, which will leave him vulnerable to Ribovics' power. He believes Ribovics can survive the first round and then take over as Radzhabov fades. Jacob is 50/50 on the fight and sees value in a Ribovics finish in the second or third round.

Radzhabov is a grapple-heavy fighter who will close distance and drag the fight to the ground, where he does damage from top position. Ribovics has questionable takedown defense and his Kimura sweep path to his feet won't work at this level. Radzhabov will repeatedly take him down and grind out a decision victory.

Paul is confident in Radzhabov, calling it a talent gap. He thinks Ribovics' submission attempts won't work at this level and Radzhabov's pressure and takedowns will be too much. He notes Radzhabov's cardio is a concern but expects a finish.

The MMA Guru picks Loik Radzhabov over Esteban Ribovics, citing Radzhabov's experience against tough competition in PFL and his durability, having never been finished. He notes Ribovics' recent win was against a low-level opponent and doubts he can finish Radzhabov. He predicts a decision win for Radzhabov, 29-28.

Zane also picks Radzhabov, though he is hesitant. He notes that Ribovics is a powerful puncher but Radzhabov is durable and has a strong clinch game. Zane thinks that if Radzhabov can avoid getting knocked out early, he will grind out a win with his wrestling. He acknowledges that Ribovics could land a knockout, but Radzhabov's chin and experience give him the edge.