UFC 324

Angelo picks Paddy Pimblett but with low confidence, calling the line disrespectful. He trusts Paddy's grappling and durability, believing he can avoid getting knocked out and land takedowns. He acknowledges Justin Gaethje's toughness and striking volume but thinks Paddy's youth and recent improvements give him the edge. He says he is not betting on this fight.

Big Brady thinks the ground is lava for Gaethje, who gets dominated and submitted when taken down. He notes Pimblett has a massive grappling advantage and will likely get the fight to the mat. On the feet, Gaethje is better but hasn't knocked anyone out recently except Poirier, and Pimblett is durable. He predicts Pimblett by second-round submission.

Cody picks Justin Gaethje as an underdog, citing Gaethje's proven durability, cardio, and experience against top competition. He questions Paddy's resume, noting he hasn't faced the upper echelon of the division. Cody believes Gaethje's striking and pressure will be key, and he likes the plus money value.

Connor picks Gaethje but is hesitant, acknowledging that Pimblett's style is a real threat. He argues that Gaethje's low kicks and pocket power could be decisive, and that Pimblett's 42% striking defense is historically terrible. However, he admits Gaethje has lost speed and finishing touch, and that Pimblett's durability and grappling could cause problems. Connor ultimately trusts Gaethje's experience and power to find a finish, but says he doesn't feel good about it.

Daniel Vreeland picks Paddy Pimblett to win by finish. He notes that Gaethje is aging at 37 and has been rocked in many fights, while Pimblett is durable, improving, and has a deceptive ground game. Vreeland believes Pimblett can time Gaethje's kicks and land a hook, and that his jiu-jitsu and durability will be key. He also mentions that Gaethje has been submitted before and that Pimblett's confidence is high.

James highlights a massive grappling disparity, noting Pimblett is a legitimate black belt while Gaethje is a blue belt who admitted to not training grappling. He believes Pimblett will get the fight to the ground via clinch trips or judo throws and submit Gaethje, possibly with a triangle choke. He also notes Gaethje's durability issues and a potential staph infection. James predicts a submission win in round three.

The host believes Paddy Pimblett's size, strength, and grappling will be too much for an aging Justin Gaethje. He notes that Gaethje's best chance is to box and use leg kicks, but expects Pimblett to eventually drag him to the mat and secure a submission, similar to his win over Michael Chandler. The host acknowledges the line at -225 is a bit wide but sees Pimblett catching Gaethje at the perfect time.

Paul leans toward Paddy Pimblett, noting his improved lifestyle and cardio. He believes Paddy's grappling will be the difference over five rounds, potentially securing a submission. However, he is hesitant on the money line and prefers the prop bet of Paddy by submission at +185.

The MMA Guru picks Paddy Pimblett by submission, citing Gaethje's grappling vulnerabilities and Pimblett's jiu-jitsu. He notes that Gaethje's KO power is inconsistent and that Pimblett can slow the pace. He predicts an armbar or triangle.

Zane picks Paddy Pimblett, citing Gaethje's age (37) and mileage, his recent struggles with takedowns (e.g., against Fiziev), and Pimblett's venomous grappling and fearlessness. He notes that Gaethje's one-shot KO power has diminished and that Pimblett's chaotic style often leads to ground scrambles where Gaethje panics. Zane acknowledges Pimblett's terrible striking defense (42%) but believes his durability and ability to create weird grappling opportunities will be decisive.

Angelo picks Sean O'Malley, arguing that O'Malley's best version (when he was partying and podcasting) would win. He believes O'Malley's clean footwork and accuracy will exploit Yadong's lack of striking defense. He notes Yadong is hittable and throws with power, but O'Malley should pick him apart. He hopes O'Malley returns to his old lifestyle for the win.

Big Brady notes O'Malley's losses came when opponents took him down repeatedly, but Song Yadong averages less than one takedown per 15 minutes. He believes O'Malley is the better striker and will win a striking match. He worries about O'Malley's mentality after two losses to Merab but expects the best version to win by decision.

Cody picks Sean O'Malley but is hesitant due to O'Malley's potential lack of motivation and Song Yadong's durability. He notes O'Malley's length and accuracy should allow him to win the first two rounds, but worries about a gritty third round. He suggests O'Malley by decision as a prop.

Connor also picks O'Malley, emphasizing that Song Yadong is an unimaginative fighter who lacks variety in his approach. He notes that Song's best path to victory (low kicks and wrestling) is possible but unlikely given O'Malley's mobility and range. Connor believes O'Malley's swagger and ability to make opponents hesitant will be key, and that Song's inability to cut off the cage will leave him chasing O'Malley all night.

Daniel Vreeland picks Song Yadong to win by decision. He criticizes O'Malley's recent timidity and reliance on counters, and notes that O'Malley has talked about retirement. Vreeland believes Song has the speed, leg kicks, and wrestling to compete with O'Malley, and that his well-rounded approach and power will be the deciding factors. He also mentions that Song has taken down Peter Yan, which bodes well for his wrestling advantage.

James believes O'Malley is a level above everywhere, with superior fight IQ and striking IQ. He expects O'Malley to stay at range, pot shot, and win via decision. He notes Song's durability but thinks O'Malley's smart game plan will prevail. James also mentions O'Malley's high fight IQ and preparation with Paul Czech.

The host sees this as a favorable matchup for O'Malley, who faces a fellow striker in Song Yadong. He believes O'Malley's striking wizardry, footwork, and trap-setting will allow him to out-strike Yadong and potentially land a knockout. The host notes uncertainty about O'Malley's mentality after two losses but thinks this style matchup will bring back the 'Sugar Show'. He does not see enough value on Yadong to pick the upset.

Paul agrees with Cody, emphasizing O'Malley's 5-inch reach advantage and Song Yadong's slow starts. He believes O'Malley will use his footwork and volume to win a decision, though he notes Song's grappling improvements could be a factor. Paul sees O'Malley by decision as the most likely outcome.

The MMA Guru picks Sean O'Malley by decision, noting Song Yadong's durability and toughness. He believes O'Malley's reach, kicks, and power will be key, and that Yadong's facial cuts could lead to a stoppage. He predicts a 30-27 decision.

Zane picks O'Malley confidently, noting that Song Yadong is a plodding striker with poor footwork and range management, which plays perfectly into O'Malley's sniping style. He points out that Song has historically struggled against mobile fighters who fight off the back foot (e.g., Kyler Phillips, Cory Sandhagen). Zane also mentions that O'Malley's reach and footwork will make it hard for Song to close distance, and that O'Malley's durability is sufficient to handle Song's power.

Angelo picks Waldo Cortes Acosta, citing his athleticism, speed, and technical striking. He acknowledges Derrick Lewis's knockout power but believes Waldo's chin and volume will carry him. He notes Waldo was rocked in his last fight but trusts his durability. He says the odds are probably accurate but warns it's a Derrick Lewis fight where anything can happen.

Big Brady highlights Waldo's durability, noting he ate bombs from Pavlovich and smiled. He thinks Lewis is knockout-or-bust and Waldo is a much better minute-winner. He expects Waldo to cruise to a decision win, as Lewis likely can't knock him out.

Cody picks Waldo Cortes-Acosta but is hesitant due to the price tag. He notes Waldo's jab and footwork could give Lewis problems, but worries about Waldo's tendency to be hesitant against power punchers. Cody sees Waldo winning more often than not but prefers not to lay the heavy price.

Connor picks Derrick Lewis, relying on his proven ability to change a fight with one punch or a wild technique (e.g., flying knee). He argues that Waldo Cortes Acosta is not a consistent fighter and can be drawn into brawls, as seen against Ryan Spann. Connor also notes that Lewis has a history of winning fights he's losing (e.g., Volkov, Hunt) and that his dynamism is a constant threat. However, he admits Lewis's calm has eroded in recent years.

Daniel Vreeland picks Waldo Cortes-Acosta but is hesitant. He notes that he has been wrong about Cortes-Acosta before, picking against him in his last two fights. He acknowledges Lewis's knockout power and get-up game, but believes Cortes-Acosta has momentum and is coming into his own. Vreeland warns that Lewis is always dangerous and that this is a tough fight to call.

James picks Cortes-Acosta via decision, citing his superior boxing and durability. He notes Lewis is on a downtrend, often quitting when tired, and that Cortes-Acosta is smart enough to avoid Lewis's power bursts. He mentions the over 1.5 rounds as a potential prop.

The host expects Cortes Acosta to use his pesky jab and body work to slow down Derrick Lewis, eventually leading to a TKO finish. He notes Cortes Acosta's improved chin and durability, believing he can eat Lewis's best shots. However, he hesitates to play the -350 line, suggesting the method of victory might be a better bet. He predicts the fight won't go to the scorecards.

Paul picks Derrick Lewis by KO, viewing it as a system play. He acknowledges Waldo is more likely to win but believes Lewis's power is a game-changer. Paul notes Lewis's age and cardio issues but says power is the last to go, and he likes the plus money on Lewis by KO.

The MMA Guru picks Waldo Cortes Acosta, citing his talented hands and recent activity. He believes Derrick Lewis's one-dimensional striking will be countered, and that Lewis will quit after getting cracked. He predicts a first-round TKO.

Zane leans toward Waldo Cortes Acosta, citing his youth (34) and calm, consistent approach. He notes that Derrick Lewis has lost his composure in recent fights and tends to brawl recklessly, which plays into Waldo's patient counter-striking. However, Zane acknowledges that Lewis has dynamic fight-changing power and could land a lucky shot. He also mentions that Waldo is not a consistent finisher and could be outpointed if Lewis fights smart.

Angelo picks Natália Silva, calling her faster, cleaner, and a better athlete. He praises her footwork and timing. He acknowledges Rose Namajunas's experience and fight IQ but believes Silva's youth and speed will prevail. He suggests over 2.5 rounds as a likely lock.

Big Brady believes Silva is one of the best flyweights, with elite takedown defense (92%) and great striking volume and power. He thinks Rose will struggle similar to her fight with Fiorot, and Silva will piece her up over 15 minutes for a dominant decision win.

Cody confidently picks Natália Silva, citing her 92% takedown defense and striking volume. He believes Rose Namajunas struggles at 125 pounds and won't be able to secure takedowns. Cody expects Silva to win a unanimous decision, outworking Rose on the feet.

Connor also picks Silva, agreeing that Rose Namajunas has not adapted well to flyweight. He notes that Rose's power and speed have diminished, and that she now has to outwork opponents—a style she never excelled at. Connor points out that Silva is faster, hits harder, and throws more, and that Rose's best chance (wrestling) is untested against Silva. He believes Silva's dynamism will be too much for Rose to handle.

Daniel Vreeland picks Natália Silva to win by decision. He praises Silva's confidence, well-rounded game, and impressive wins over former champions. He notes that Silva is younger, hungrier, and has speed that matches Namajunas. Vreeland believes Silva will beat Namajunas decisively and earn a title shot against Valentina Shevchenko.

James is confident in Silva, noting her superior footwork neutralizes Namajunas's best asset. He expects Silva to win via decision, possibly hurting Namajunas with kicks but not finishing her. He mentions Silva's taekwondo background and that she has cashed for him multiple times.

The host leans towards Silva by decision, praising her distance management and blitzing style. However, he finds the -410 line too wide and believes Rose Namajunas is live as a plus-310 underdog. He notes Namajunas's experience, improved grappling, and ability to counter mobile strikers. He suggests the over 2.5 rounds is a no-brainer and recommends betting on Namajunas for value.

Paul agrees with Cody, emphasizing Silva's speed and combination punching. He doubts Rose can get the wrestling going and believes Silva's quickness will overwhelm her. Paul sees a decision win for Silva, noting that a knockout prop is not worth the price.

The MMA Guru picks Natália Silva, praising her kicking game and ability to fight off the back foot. He notes that Rose Namajunas often leaves fights close and lacks offensive grappling at flyweight. He predicts a decision win, possibly 30-27.

Zane picks Natália Silva confidently, highlighting her incredible speed and high output. He notes that Silva's bad defensive habits (chin in the air) are mitigated by her speed and ability to counter, and that she has hurt every opponent she's faced. Zane argues that Rose Namajunas has lost power and speed at flyweight, and that she can no longer rely on fight-changing shots. He believes Silva's volume and pace will overwhelm Rose over three rounds.

Angelo picks Jean Silva but with low confidence, citing uncertainty about Arnold Allen's health after a long layoff and injuries. He thinks Silva's creativity and aggression will overwhelm Allen, but he worries about Silva coming off a knockout loss. He says he is staying away from betting on this fight.

Big Brady is surprised by the wide odds but picks Silva due to his power, durability, and volume. He thinks Silva hits harder and is more active, and expects a war with Silva landing bigger shots. He predicts Silva by decision, though a knockout wouldn't shock him.

Cody leans toward Arnold Allen, citing Jean Silva's recklessness and poor fight IQ. He notes Silva often gets outworked early and makes mistakes, while Allen is defensively sound and can outpoint him. Cody is wary of Silva's power but believes Allen can win a decision or catch Silva with a counter.

Connor also picks Jean Silva, emphasizing that Silva is the most difficult fighter to game plan for due to his unpredictable, instinctive style. He notes that Arnold Allen's patient, professional approach may not account for Silva's ability to change intensity and land unexpected strikes. Connor points out that Silva has never faced a top-level professional like Allen, but believes Silva's unique talents will cause Allen to get surprised. He also mentions the layoff as a concern for Allen.

Daniel Vreeland picks Jean Silva but with low confidence due to Silva's discipline issues. He notes that Silva has power and shot selection, but his tendency to get cocky and taunt could cost him against a technical fighter like Allen. Vreeland says it's a pass for betting but as a pure pick, he goes with Silva, contingent on him staying disciplined.

James picks Silva, calling him a standout striker with crazy power, reminiscent of Conor McGregor. He believes Allen lacks a standout skill and will be outclassed on the feet. James predicts a KO or decision win for Silva, leaning KO, and notes Silva's hunger for redemption.

The host picks Jean Silva by knockout, citing his activity, power, and ability to walk down opponents. He notes Arnold Allen's low output and inactivity, which could be a problem against Silva's pressure. He also mentions the under 2.5 rounds as a strong prop, given both fighters' power and finishing ability. He is not willing to bet Silva at -255 but likes the under.

Paul picks Jean Silva by KO, taking a small shot on the prop. He acknowledges Silva's flaws but believes his power and pressure can overwhelm Allen, who has never been knocked out. Paul notes Silva's durability and ability to land big shots, but is not confident enough to bet the money line.

The MMA Guru picks Jean Silva, citing Arnold Allen's brittle hands and susceptibility to being dropped. He notes Silva's nasty lead hook and believes Allen's tendency to leave fights to decision will be exploited. He predicts a late first or second round TKO.

Zane picks Jean Silva, citing his incredible timing, sense of distance, and ability to land fight-changing shots. He notes that Arnold Allen, while well-rounded and professional, lacks dynamic finishing ability and often lets opponents stay competitive. Zane argues that Silva's chaotic, vibey style will create opportunities that Allen cannot capitalize on, and that Allen's long layoff and mental health struggles are additional concerns. He acknowledges that Silva can be gameplanless but believes his intangibles will prevail.

Angelo picks Umar Nurmagomedov with extreme confidence, calling minus 500 understated. He argues Umar is better in every aspect: striking, wrestling, speed, and strength. He questions how Figueiredo can win given his 57% takedown defense and lack of power. He believes Umar has way more paths to victory.

Big Brady sees this as a brutal matchup for Figueiredo, who is 38 and coming off a poor performance against Sandhagen. He expects Umar to take him down easily and submit him, likely by rear-naked choke in the second round. He notes Figueiredo's only chance is a guillotine or big shot, but both are unlikely.

Cody agrees with Paul, noting Umar's wrestling and Figueiredo's decline. He mentions Figueiredo's poor cardio and lack of activity, making Umar a strong favorite. Cody is not betting the money line but considers the over 2.5 rounds or Umar by decision as alternatives.

Connor argues that Figueiredo has adapted well at bantamweight by slowing pace and relying on wrestling, but Umar is a superior wrestler and grappler who won't be outwrestled. He notes that Figueiredo's slow pace won't work against Umar's high volume of kicks and pressure, and that Figueiredo struggled on the ground against Corey Sandhagen. Connor believes the odds are disrespectful to Figueiredo, but still picks Umar confidently.

Daniel Vreeland picks Umar Nurmagomedov to dominate. He notes that Umar is younger, taller, and a massive favorite. Vreeland respects Figueiredo's power and experience but believes Umar will outwork him and possibly secure a finish. He advises passing on betting due to the steep odds.

James is confident in Nurmagomedov, citing his elite training camp with Islam Makhachev and Figueiredo's apparent lack of focus (posting guns and weightlifting). He predicts a submission win, possibly a rear-naked choke, and notes the odds reflect the disparity.

The host is confident in Nurmagomedov, expecting him to take Figueiredo down and wear him out for a late finish. He notes Figueiredo's only chance is a puncher's shot or guillotine, but doubts he can outwrestle or outstrike Nurmagomedov. He finds the -500 line amusing but sees it as justified, predicting a third-round finish.

Paul picks Umar Nurmagomedov but is not betting the money line due to the steep price. He believes Umar's wrestling and control will be too much for Figueiredo, who has declined at bantamweight. Paul notes Figueiredo's lack of cardio and recent performances, making Umar a safe pick for parlays.

The MMA Guru picks Umar Nurmagomedov, noting his constant pressure and grappling advantage over Figueiredo's 'small moments'. He believes Umar will survive Figueiredo's tricks and finish him via TKO in round two.

Zane agrees with Connor that Umar is the clear pick, emphasizing that Figueiredo's adjusted style of low output and wrestling won't work against Umar's wrestling and pressure. He notes that Umar will be happy to throw thousands of kicks from range and that Figueiredo's slow pace will be countered. Zane also comments on the odds being lopsided but still picks Umar.

Angelo picks Ateba Gautier, calling him a nasty striker with incredible speed and power. He notes Gautier fades but usually finishes early. He acknowledges Andrey Pulyaev is a capable striker with a good jab but believes Gautier will likely win by knockout. He suggests looking for prop bets to find value at minus 800.

Big Brady calls this a 'sanctioned murder,' praising Gautier's manager for feeding him easy opponents. He notes Gautier has spent only about 5-6 minutes in the UFC and has knocked out everyone. He believes Pulyaev will back up and get knocked out in round one, possibly fatally.

Cody is very confident in Ateba Gautier, comparing him to Francis Ngannou in terms of athleticism and power. He believes Gautier's physicality and striking will overwhelm Pulyaev, who has poor grappling and a weak chin. Cody expects a first-round finish and has bets on Gautier by KO and under 1.5 rounds.

Connor sees Gautier as a promising prospect with a great head for MMA, while Pulyaev has terrible retreating defense and collapses inward when backing up. He notes that Gautier is an insistent pressure fighter who manages his range well, stepping in with a one-two and then taking a half-step back to land again. Connor believes Pulyaev's poor footwork and tendency to fold under pressure will be exploited.

Daniel Vreeland picks Ateba Gautier to win. He notes Gautier's physicality, knockout power, and youth at 23. He acknowledges that Pulyaev is a step up in competition and is durable, but believes Gautier's confidence and power will be the difference. Vreeland is curious about the over 1.5 rounds prop but ultimately picks Gautier.

James is extremely confident, calling Gautier an elite striker with amazing ringcraft and patience. He dismisses the narrative that Gautier only wins due to athleticism, emphasizing his technical striking. He predicts a KO win, possibly in the first round.

The host picks Gautier by first-round knockout, citing his power and explosiveness. He notes that Pulyaev is a striker but may struggle with Gautier's power and could try grappling unsuccessfully. He recommends the under 1.5 rounds as a better bet than the moneyline, as Gautier is a heavy favorite.

Paul is also confident in Gautier, calling him a future champion. He notes Gautier's youth, athleticism, and power, and believes Pulyaev's striking-heavy style plays into Gautier's hands. Paul expects a dominant performance and will include Gautier in parlays despite the high price.

The MMA Guru picks Ateba Gautier, calling it a lock due to the massive odds (-1000). He notes Gautier's finishing ability and Pulyaev's hesitancy, but also mentions a potential grappling weakness for Gautier. He predicts a first-round TKO via body shots.

Zane agrees that Gautier is the pick, highlighting that Pulyaev is not a step up from previous opponents and that Gautier's pressure and range management will be too much. He notes that Pulyaev's retreating defense is terrible and that Gautier will keep him trapped and land consistently. Zane also comments on the smart booking for Gautier's development.

Angelo picks Modestas Bukauskas, trusting his takedown defense and power. He thinks Nikita Krylov is the better overall fighter but has a weak chin, and Bukauskas only needs one clean shot. He warns Bukauskas not to engage in grappling like he did against Paul Craig.

Big Brady thinks Krylov is washed, citing his age (33 but 41 fights), long layoff, and two recent KO losses where he looked old and hesitant. He notes Krylov has stopped grappling, which was his best attribute. Bukauskas has been improving, and Brady expects him to knock out Krylov in the second round.

Cody confidently picks Bukauskas, arguing that Krylov is washed after a two-year layoff and two first-round KO losses. He notes Bukauskas's defensive wrestling and cardio should allow him to survive the first round and take over. Cody believes Bukauskas's ring generalship and durability will be enough to edge out a win.

Connor is sad about Krylov's decline, noting his chin is gone after two consecutive knockouts. He observes that Krylov looks panicked and flailing in recent fights, while Bukauskas has been improving, becoming more composed and taking opportunities. Connor believes Bukauskas's accuracy and incidental power could lead to a knockout, especially given Krylov's compromised durability.

Daniel Vreeland picks Modestas Bukauskas to win by knockout. He notes that Krylov has lost two straight by first-round KO and appears washed, while Bukauskas is on a hot streak and brimming with confidence. Vreeland believes Bukauskas is catching Krylov at the perfect time and will get the biggest win of his career.

James picks Krylov as an underdog, believing the line is too wide due to recency bias. He notes Krylov's superior skill set and grappling, and that Bukauskas has struggled with grappling. He also mentions inside info that Bukauskas's training camp has been disrupted. However, he acknowledges Krylov's chin might be shot.

The host picks Bukauskas by knockout, believing his improved striking and defensive grappling will nullify Krylov's takedowns. He notes Krylov is on a two-fight losing streak and may be desperate, but Bukauskas's recent form and training with top heavyweights give him the edge. He loves the -140 line but has slight pause due to Bukauskas's past bonehead mistakes.

Paul leans toward Modestas Bukauskas, citing Krylov's recent durability issues and poor form. He notes Bukauskas is a generalist who can outwork Krylov, especially if the fight goes past the first round. Paul is hesitant due to Bukauskas's wrestling vulnerability but believes Krylov's decline is real.

The MMA Guru picks Modestas Bukauskas, criticizing Nikita Krylov's charging style and chin. He notes Bukauskas's growing confidence and counter-striking ability, predicting a KO in round two after an initial scrap.

Zane agrees with Connor, emphasizing that Krylov's chin is gone and he looks like he's swimming out there. He notes that Bukauskas is peaking at 31 and has become more accurate and composed. Zane also comments on Krylov's lack of confidence and panicked starts, which Bukauskas can exploit.

Angelo picks Alex Perez despite his four-fight losing streak, arguing the losses are to elite fighters and he was winning against Asu Almabaev before a mistake. He praises Perez's striking, low kicks, and wrestling. He notes Charles Johnson is a friend of the show but believes Perez can pull off the upset. He is very low confidence, rating it 51 out of 100.

Big Brady notes Perez finds ways to lose, often getting finished when he's winning. He expects Perez to win round one but fade as Johnson works into the fight. He predicts Johnson will finish Perez, likely by submission, as Perez has been submitted many times.

Cody picks Charles Johnson, citing Perez's poor cardio and tendency to make mistakes. He notes Johnson's improved takedown defense and striking volume, and believes Johnson will win the later rounds. Cody sees Johnson as a live underdog and expects him to win by decision or late stoppage.

Connor questions whether Alex Perez is actually a good flyweight, noting his record of 1 win in 6 fights over 5 years. He sees Perez as a bully on the front foot who lacks durability and defensive striking. Johnson, on the other hand, is clicking better, finding his timing earlier, and has a persistent, awkward style that can frustrate opponents. Connor believes Johnson can survive Perez's hot start and take over, possibly getting a finish.

Daniel Vreeland picks Charles Johnson to finish Alex Perez. He notes that Perez has lost five of his last six and has questionable heart and fight IQ. Vreeland believes Johnson's slow-starting style matches up well against Perez, who tends to fade. He predicts Johnson will find the chin or neck of Perez for a finish.

James picks Johnson, citing his superior striking, cardio, and durability. He notes Perez often gets finished and that Johnson is more locked into MMA. He predicts a finish, possibly by submission or knockout.

The host picks Perez as an underdog, citing his forward pressure, leg kicks, and gas tank. He believes Perez can dictate the pace and outwork Johnson, who can be gunshy. He notes Perez's recent losses are to high-level competition and sees value at +175. He predicts Perez by decision or knockout.

Paul agrees with Cody, emphasizing Johnson's improvements and Perez's bad luck. He notes Johnson's knockout power and volume, and believes Perez's cardio will fail him. Paul likes Johnson on the money line and also considers the knockout prop.

The MMA Guru picks Charles Johnson, citing his win over Joshua Van and his range advantage. He notes that Johnson's uppercut game will be effective against Perez's head-tucking hooks. He predicts a close decision, possibly with Perez having a good third round.

Zane agrees with Connor, noting that Perez's wrestling control time is often minimal and that he walks into danger. Johnson has a great flow and timing, and his ability to pressure and exhaust opponents is key. Zane also mentions that Johnson knocked out the flyweight champion and has a Bobby Green-like quality. He thinks Johnson can survive Perez's early pressure and win.

Angelo picks Josh Hokit, calling him a potential superstar with athleticism, speed, and power. He acknowledges Denzel Freeman's impressive highlights but notes his terrible UFC debut where he made noises instead of fighting. He expects Hokit's wrestling and forward pressure to be too much, though he warns the fight could be oddly competitive.

Big Brady leans Freeman despite his poor UFC debut, citing his striking and wrestling background. He thinks the line is inflated due to recency bias. He expects a striking fight since both are wrestlers, and Freeman has the edge on the feet. He predicts Freeman by decision, though he thinks the fight might be slow.

Cody leans toward Ian Freeman, citing his wrestling and durability. He notes Freeman's Greco-Roman background should help him stuff takedowns, and his striking is underrated. Cody believes Freeman can outwork Hokit if the fight goes past the first round, and likes the over 1.5 rounds prop.

Connor picks Freeman because he can grind out tough fights and has shown durability, never being knocked out. He notes that Hokit seems like a fighter who either wins instantly or melts down, and Freeman has experience in ugly, grindy fights. Connor is not confident but leans Freeman.

Daniel Vreeland picks Josh Hokit but is not confident. He notes that Hokit is a good prospect but needs to prove himself against better competition. Freeman is an awkward wrestler with a Greco background, which could neutralize Hokit's wrestling. Vreeland is curious to see how the fight plays out on the feet and whether Hokit can dominate on the ground.

James leans towards Freeman as an underdog, citing his better overall striking and value at plus odds. He notes Hokit has knockout power but Freeman's kicking and boxing are superior. However, he is not confident and plans to tape study more.

The host leans towards Hokit by TKO, citing his fight IQ and ability to push a pace. He acknowledges Freeman is more skilled but believes Hokit is the better fighter who will dig deeper. He suggests Freeman is a no-brainer dog shot due to his skill advantage, but picks Hokit to smother Freeman and finish in the second or third round.

Paul picks Josh Hokit but is not confident, noting Freeman's wrestling background and size advantage. He believes Hokit's athleticism and pressure could overwhelm Freeman, but worries about Hokit's cardio and inexperience. Paul prefers the over 1.5 rounds prop.

The MMA Guru picks Josh Hokit, calling him a 'blob destroyer' who finishes fights early. He contrasts Hokit's first-round TKOs with Denzel Freeman's forgettable debut, and believes Hokit will become a contender. He predicts a first-round finish.

Zane agrees with Connor, noting that Freeman has been in longer fights and has a decision win in his UFC debut, while Hokit's fights have been quick finishes. He thinks if it becomes a grindy fight, Freeman will win. Zane also notes Hokit is a good athlete but unproven in longer fights.

Angelo picks Ty Miller, praising his clean boxing, length, and scramble skills. He notes Miller's takedown defense is poor but believes if Miller focuses on striking and doesn't get obsessed with defending takedowns, he should win. He acknowledges Fugitt's strength and wrestling but thinks Miller's forward pressure and volume will be enough.

Big Brady is impressed with Ty Miller's Contender Series performance, noting his length, rangy striking, and slick combinations. He criticizes Adam Fugitt as a 'walking punching bag' with poor striking defense and no clear strengths. Brady predicts Miller will piece him up and potentially knock him out in the third round, though he hesitates to lay -415 on a debutant.

Cody is confident in Jim Miller, citing his length, boxing, and youth. He notes Miller's reach advantage and technical striking should be too much for Fugitt, who has durability issues. Cody expects Miller to win by knockout or decision and will include him in parlays.

Connor picks Miller, seeing him as a young athlete with potential, good form, and pressure. He notes that Miller is a sniper who can one-shot people, but worries about his lack of a next gear. However, he thinks Miller's size and power could overwhelm Fugitt, who is a mediocre fighter.

Daniel Vreeland picks Jim Miller (Tai Miller) to win by knockout. He notes that Miller is younger, taller, and has a reach advantage, while Fugitt is 37, chinny, and has been lucky in recent fights. Vreeland believes Miller's sharp striking and viciousness will be too much for Fugitt, predicting a knockout.

James picks Miller, comparing his style to Petr Yan's data-downloading approach. He believes Miller will stalk Fugitt, get his reads, and knock him out with boxing combinations. He predicts a knockout in round two.

The host picks Miller by decision, believing his technical striking will outpoint Fugitt. However, he notes the odds are too wide and that Fugitt has value at +355 due to his experience and pressure. He expects Miller to win but warns against the chalky price.

Paul also picks Jim Miller, noting his striking combinations and southpaw stance. He believes Fugitt's Muay Thai stance and lack of wrestling will be exploited. Paul expects Miller to land clean shots and finish Fugitt, and he likes Miller by KO.

The MMA Guru picks Ty Cole Miller, citing his length and rangy style, as well as his win over Eric Nolan on the regional scene. He notes that Adam Fugitt has been humbled and dominated in recent fights, and that Miller is an undefeated prospect making his debut. He predicts a TKO finish.

Zane picks Fugitt, arguing that Miller is undercooked and hasn't faced a seasoned pro. He notes that Fugitt is a mediocre fighter but has a professional MMA game, while Miller struggled to finish a low-level opponent. Zane thinks Fugitt's awkwardness and takedown attempts could give Miller problems.