UFC Fight Night: Kattar vs. Allen

Big Brady picks Calvin Kattar to win by decision. He argues that Kattar's volume and pressure will be too much for Allen, who has shown low output and cardio issues in three-round fights. He notes that Kattar has never been knocked down and has gone five rounds in his last four fights, while Allen has never seen a fourth round. He believes Allen will need to hurt Kattar to win, which is unlikely given Kattar's durability.

Cody argues that Arnold Allen is a low-output fighter who has been carried by close decisions and flashy finishes against declining competition. He points to Allen's low significant strike totals in many fights and notes that Calvin Kattar has landed over 100 significant strikes in his last four fights, has a cast-iron chin, and superior technical boxing and work rate. Cody expects Kattar's volume and five-round experience to wear Allen down over the distance, likely resulting in a close decision win.

Daniel Levi picks Arnold Allen, citing his versatility, southpaw stance with an outside calf kick, and ability to win early rounds. He notes Allen's experience against tough competition and his own money train on Allen. He respects Kattar's durability and iron will but questions the cumulative damage from recent fights. He got Allen at +110 and is confident in the pick, though he acknowledges Kattar could win if Allen fatigues.

Jacob picks Arnold Allen but is scared to death. He notes Allen's counter-striking and wrestling should be key, but Kattar is a better boxer and can mix in wrestling. Jacob worries about Allen facing adversity for the first time. He calls it a coin flip.

Kattar's volume and combination striking will be too much for Allen, who tends to be low-volume and waits for moments. Allen's explosive win over Hooker was against a compromised opponent. Kattar has five-round experience and should outwork Allen over 25 minutes. The plus money on Kattar is excellent value.

Paul agrees with Cody that volume is the deciding factor, noting that Kattar is obscenely durable and has five-round experience. He mentions a prop on Prize Picks for Arnold Allen over 0.5 takedowns, expecting Allen to mix in wrestling but not being a great wrestler. Paul says he'll probably end up with money on Calvin Kattar on Saturday, indicating a betting interest.

The MMA Guru picks Calvin Kattar over Arnold Allen, despite expecting Allen to look great early and possibly break Kattar's nose. He doubts Allen's finishing ability and notes Allen tends to slow down in later rounds, as seen against Sadiq Yusuff. He believes Kattar's experience fighting with a broken nose and his body work will pay off, predicting Kattar wins rounds 3-5 via decision or late TKO.

Big Brady picks Max Griffin to win by second-round knockout. He notes that Griffin's power has improved recently, as seen in his knockout of Aalon Cruz, while Means' durability has declined with age and damage. He mentions that Means has been hurt in recent fights by lesser punchers, and Griffin's durability is excellent. He expects Griffin to land hard shots and finish Means.

Cody acknowledges Tim Means' plus money appeal but points to Means' durability issues at 38 years old and his tendency to fade in later rounds. He notes that Means has been relying more on wrestling as he ages, but Max Griffin has good takedown defense (as seen against Neil Magny) and a solid jab. Cody expects Griffin to beat Means to the jab, stuff takedowns, and eventually land a big shot or win two rounds. He is not betting the fight but picks Griffin.

Daniel Levi picks Max Griffin, citing his momentum, confidence, and aspirations to break into the top 15. He notes Griffin's dangerous striking and recent close fight with Neil Magny. He questions Tim Means' durability and suggests Means may be near retirement. However, he has no interest in laying the -190 price and will just watch.

Jacob picks Tim Means, expecting him to survive Griffin's early power and then wear him down with pace, pressure, and wrestling. He compares it to Griffin's fight with Neil Magny, where Griffin faded. Jacob thinks Means wins by decision.

Griffin has athletic advantages and more left in the tank compared to Means, who is slowing down. Means has better combinations but Griffin's power could catch him. Griffin by knockout at +250 is appealing, but no bet at the current moneyline. Live betting Griffin if Means has early success is a potential strategy.

Paul leans toward Tim Means as a dog, expecting a close stand-up fight where Means may get a hot start. However, he admits Means' cardio and durability are concerns, and he does not love the bet. He picks Means for the show but says he won't bet it, noting the over 2.5 rounds at -160 seems about right.

The MMA Guru picks Max Griffin over Tim Means, believing Griffin's calf kicks will be effective against Means' heavy lead leg. He notes Griffin's improved boxing and ability to drop opponents, as seen against Neil Magny. He thinks Means, at 38 and coming off a loss to Kevin Holland, will struggle with Griffin's pressure and predicts Griffin wins by 29-28 decision, taking over as the fight goes on.

Big Brady picks Waldo Cortes Acosta to win by second-round knockout. He criticizes Vanderaa's poor fight IQ and lack of takedown attempts, noting that Vanderaa has a clear path to victory via wrestling but fails to execute. He highlights Acosta's power and volume, and believes Vanderaa's terrible striking defense will lead to a knockout.

Cody picks Waldo but is not betting him due to the -200 price and Waldo's greenness. He highlights Waldo's boxing background, solid takedown defense, and development at 31 years old. He criticizes Jared Vanderaa's low fight IQ, citing his poor decision to wrestle Alexey Oleynik and his lack of takedown attempts against Chase Sherman. Cody prefers the over 1.5 rounds prop as a betting angle.

Daniel Levi picks Acosta, but is not impressed enough to lay the -195 price. He views Vanderaa as a fighter who doesn't belong in the UFC (1-5 record) and likes to fade him. He acknowledges Acosta's boxing background and power but notes he is still green. He passes on betting but picks Acosta to win.

Jacob picks Waldo but is not confident due to heavyweight volatility. He thinks Waldo will chase a first-round finish, but if Vanderaa survives, he could grind out a decision. Jacob suggests a Waldo first-round play but advises staying away.

Acosta is a complete fighter who can keep up with Vanderaa's pace and push him against the cage. Vanderaa is on a four-fight losing streak and struggles when pressured. However, paying -195 on a Contender Series heavyweight is risky. The over 1.5 rounds prop is a better bet as both fighters tend to clinch and grapple, eating clock.

Paul also picks Waldo, noting his boxing base, LFA title win, and training in Arizona. He acknowledges Vanderaa could win if he implements a high-volume, forward-pressure game plan as he did against Justin Tafa, but doubts Vanderaa's consistency and fight IQ. Paul mentions the over 1.5 rounds as a potential play but is not fully committed.

The MMA Guru picks Waldo Cortes Acosta over Jared Vanderaa, calling it a no-brainer. He believes Acosta is too dangerous early for Vanderaa, who makes poor decisions and is coming off a KO loss on short turnaround. He notes Acosta's power and regional win over Thomas Peterson, and predicts Acosta will catch Vanderaa swinging wildly and win by first-round KO.

Big Brady picks Josh Fremd to win by first-round knockout. He notes that Fremd is a dangerous finisher with power and size, while Gore has looked hesitant and been knocked out by Cody Brundage. He acknowledges that Fremd is hittable and Gore has power, but trusts Fremd's aggression and finishing ability more.

Cody picks Josh Fremd, citing his wrestling base, size (6'4"), and solid regional wins. He notes Fremd's competitive performance against Anthony Hernandez on short notice and believes a full camp will benefit him. Cody criticizes Tresean Gore's inexperience, poor performance against Bryan Battle, and lack of volume. He also likes Fremd by submission at +900 as a sprinkle.

Daniel Levi is confident in Josh Fremd, citing his experience, size (6'4"), and paid dues on the regional scene. He views Gore as too green and immature, lacking seasoning despite athleticism. He bet Fremd at -170 for 2 units and plans to add more as the line improved. He expects Fremd to win via experience and possibly a finish.

Jacob picks Josh Fremd, citing his wrestling and ability to withstand Gore's striking. He notes Gore is 0-2 and may fight for his life, but until Gore proves himself, Jacob defaults to Fremd. He is cautious and not confident in betting.

Gore has speed and power advantages, and his move to Fortis MMA should improve his game. However, he was flatlined in his last fight, which raises durability concerns. Fremd is more complete but Gore's takedown defense and power could lead to a knockout. The under 2.5 rounds or fight doesn't go to decision are safer plays. Gore by knockout at +330 is a tempting prop.

Paul also picks Josh Fremd, highlighting his experience, pace, and pressure. He notes that Fremd has never fought someone with a losing record and has shown improvements. Paul is critical of Gore's learning on the job and lack of recent power, and expects Fremd to tire Gore out and get the victory.

The MMA Guru picks Josh Fremd over Tresean Gore, citing Fremd's underrated grappling and experience. He notes Gore's lack of readiness, having been finished by Cody Brundage and outhustled by Bryan Battle. Fremd held his own against Anthony Hernandez on short notice, and the Guru believes Fremd's size and reach advantage will help him deal with Gore's power, predicting a second-round submission via guillotine choke.

Big Brady picks Khalil Rountree Jr. to win by knockout, but admits it's a tough fight to call due to Rountree's inconsistency. He notes that if the best version of Rountree shows up, he can knock out Jacoby, who has been dropped before. He mentions the smaller cage favors Rountree's pressure. However, he acknowledges that Jacoby is the better striker and could easily outpoint Rountree if the inconsistent version appears.

Cody picks Dustin Jacoby, citing his Glory kickboxing experience, superior cardio, and technical striking. He notes that Jacoby has shown durability (surviving knockdowns against Max Grisham) and should win on volume if he doesn't get knocked out. Cody acknowledges Khalil Rountree's power and potential but believes Jacoby's kickboxing skills will prevail in a 15-minute striking battle.

Daniel Levi picks Dustin Jacoby, citing his consistency, kickboxing experience (Glory), and titanium plate in his forearm that adds power. He acknowledges Khalil Rountree's knockout power and inconsistency, but trusts Jacoby's process. He is not betting due to the risk of Rountree's power, but picks Jacoby to win.

Jacob is confident in Dustin Jacoby, calling him a real deal striker with great kickboxing. He acknowledges Rountree's power and inconsistency but believes technique wins. Jacoby can defend takedowns and should outpoint Rountree, though he admits bias.

Jacoby's disciplined striking, footwork, and distance management will neutralize Rountree's power. Rountree's confidence is high but he struggles against technical strikers. Jacoby has more paths to victory and should win a decision. A small one-unit bet on Jacoby is recommended.

Paul is tempted by Khalil Rountree as a plus-money underdog, noting his sheer power and aggression. He mentions that when Rountree is in shape and motivated (as seen against Modestas Bukauskas and Karl Roberson), he can be dangerous. Paul says he needs to see the weigh-ins and dig into Rountree's personal life before deciding, but considers Rountree the most live underdog on the card.

The MMA Guru picks Dustin Jacoby over Khalil Rountree, noting that Rountree's wins are against low-level opponents and he lost to Marcin Prachnio, who Jacoby should outperform. He highlights Jacoby's kickboxing credentials, reach, and chin, and believes Jacoby will fight on the outside, avoid Rountree's power, and win by 30-27 decision. He expects Rountree to have moments but fade.

Big Brady picks Phil Hawes to win by decision, but expresses concern about Hawes' chin. He believes Hawes is the better fighter and will stuff Dolidze's takedowns and have success on the feet, but notes that Dolidze hits hard and Hawes has been knocked out before. He says Hawes should be the minute winner but cannot be overly confident due to durability issues.

Cody leans toward Roman Dolidze as an underdog, believing he can land a big shot in the clinch. He notes Dolidze's power and the fact that Phil Hawes has durability issues. Cody mentions Dolidze by knockout at +500 as a possible small sprinkle, but is not confident overall.

Connor picks Phil Hawes confidently, arguing that Hawes's single-minded offense and ability to recover from being hurt are key. He notes that Dolidze is not a good striker and relies on clinching and grinding, but Hawes has the strength to stall in clinch situations. Connor believes Hawes's recent improvements at Sanford MMA and his proven durability against tough opponents give him the edge.

Daniel Levi picks Phil Hawes but is hesitant due to Hawes' questionable chin. He praises Hawes' physical attributes, wrestling, and power, but notes he has been knocked out before. He expects Hawes to win unless he gets knocked out. He does not mention a bet.

Jacob picks Phil Hawes, believing he should be the better striker with a quick jab and can withstand Dolidze's grappling. He acknowledges Dolidze's relentless pressure and scrambling ability but thinks Hawes can win on the feet. He mentions possibly looking at Hawes by points.

Hawes has improved his pacing and cardio, using grappling to grind out opponents. Dolidze is durable and aggressive, but Hawes is the better wrestler and should be able to control the fight. However, there are still questions about Hawes going the full 15 minutes. The decision prop at +210 is interesting but the moneyline is the safer play.

Paul picks Phil Hawes, noting his improved cardio, wrestling pedigree, and recent smarter fighting. He criticizes Dolidze's low volume, poor ring IQ, and reliance on leg locks. Paul believes Hawes can stuff takedowns and win a striking battle, though he admits he rarely picks Hawes and may curse him.

The MMA Guru picks Phil Hawes over Roman Dolidze, believing Hawes' strength and wrestling will prevent Dolidze from controlling him against the cage. He notes Hawes' improved striking in his last fight against Roman, where he showed great defense. He thinks Dolidze loads up his shots, making them easier to see, and predicts Hawes will finish Dolidze in the third round as Dolidze slows down.

Zane picks Phil Hawes but is hesitant, acknowledging Hawes's tendency to get hurt and his single-minded offense. He notes that Hawes has lost only to good fighters and that Dolidze's style is clingy and boring, but Hawes's lack of defense and tendency to get chin-checked are concerns. Zane ultimately trusts Hawes's offensive output and durability recovery over Dolidze's grinding approach.

Big Brady picks Marcos Rogério de Lima to win by first-round knockout. He notes that Arlovski has been knocked out by power punchers and that de Lima has heavy hands, as seen in his knockout of Ben Rothwell. He mentions that Arlovski's recent wins have come against non-power punchers, and that de Lima's power and early finishing ability will be too much for the 43-year-old Arlovski.

Cody picks Andrei Arlovski as a dog, citing his four-fight winning streak and ability to win close decisions. He notes that Arlovski has been knocked out only by elite power punchers and that Marcos Rogério de Lima is a one-round fighter with poor cardio. Cody expects Arlovski to survive the first round and take over in rounds two and three, winning a decision. He is betting Arlovski.

Connor agrees with Zane, picking de Lima based on his speed and power advantage. He notes that Arlovski has been beating low-technique, slow heavyweights, but de Lima is a significant step up in athleticism. Connor also points out that de Lima can wrestle if needed, and Arlovski's lack of finishing ability means he likely can't come back if he loses the first round.

Daniel Levi picks de Lima, citing youth, power, and grappling advantage. He admits his poor track record picking Arlovski fights. He notes Arlovski's veteran savvy and speed but thinks de Lima's power and youth will be too much. He has no interest in laying -225.

Jacob picks de Lima but warns against betting heavyweight fights due to inconsistency. He notes Arlovski's recent win streak but says he was getting hit by Jake Collier, and de Lima has more power. He advises not to put money on either side.

Arlovski is on a 6-1 run over his last seven fights and has shown durability and veteran savvy. De Lima is first-round-or-bust and tends to fade in later rounds. Arlovski should survive the initial onslaught and take over in the second and third rounds, winning a decision. The plus 200 price is a no-brainer for an underdog bet.

Paul also picks Arlovski, calling him dog number two on the card. He highlights Arlovski's six wins in his last seven fights and his ability to grind out decisions. Paul criticizes de Lima's poor cardio, submission losses, and tendency to fade after the first round. He believes Arlovski's stick-and-move style will tire de Lima and lead to a decision win.

The MMA Guru picks Marcos Rogério de Lima over Andrei Arlovski, noting that Arlovski's recent fights have been close and he still gets caught on the chin. He highlights de Lima's hands, reach, and grappling threat, which Arlovski hasn't faced recently. He predicts de Lima will mix in takedowns, push Arlovski against the cage, and eventually clip him for a KO win.

Zane picks de Lima confidently, citing his significant speed and power advantage over Arlovski's recent opponents. He notes that de Lima is a fast, powerful striker who can put Arlovski away early, similar to how Ben Rothwell or Tom Aspinall did. Zane also mentions de Lima's improved conditioning and potential wrestling as an out if needed, while Arlovski is slow and not a finisher anymore.

Big Brady picks JunYong Park to win by decision. He notes that Park has fought much better competition and has superior cardio and striking volume. He acknowledges Holmes' height and reach advantage but believes Park can mix in takedowns and win minutes against the cage. Brady points out that Holmes has never been finished but expects Park to grind out a decision.

Cody picks Jun Yong Park, noting his durability and forward pressure. He acknowledges Park's poor ring IQ (getting caught by Gregory Rodrigues) but believes Park will break Holmes down over time. Cody is concerned about Holmes' grappling if Park ends up on his back, but expects Park to win a decision.

Connor agrees with Zane, picking Park as a clear favorite. He notes that Holmes is extremely raw and tentative, while Park is a busy, well-rounded fighter who can jab, take down, and grind. Connor mentions the size difference but believes Park's technical edge and pressure will be too much for Holmes.

Daniel Levi picks JunYong Park, citing his experience and veteran savvy. He acknowledges Holmes' physical advantages (height, reach) and improvement, but trusts Park's experience against tough competition. He notes Park has been rocked before, so an upset is possible, but leans with the experienced fighter.

Jacob picks Park as the safer pick, expecting him to be the cleaner striker and defend takedowns. However, he is hesitant because Park lacks danger and Holmes has dangerous jiu-jitsu. He calls the -230 odds insane and suggests Holmes is the value underdog.

Park has excellent pace, pressure, and grappling. He gassed against Gregory Rodrigues only because he threw everything at him. Holmes relies on physical attributes but lacks the skill to handle Park's pressure. Park should finish Holmes in the second or third round. The fight doesn't go to decision prop at +120 is a good alternative.

Paul leans toward Park but is not betting due to the -220 price. He notes Holmes' reach advantage and decent grappling, but is unimpressed with Holmes' stand-up. Paul says the market price seems about right and he will pick Park to win but stay away from betting.

The MMA Guru picks JunYong Park over Joseph Holmes, questioning Holmes' gas tank and the quality of his wins. He notes Holmes' win over Alan Amadovsky is not impressive as everyone finishes him early. He praises Park's performances against Eric Anders and Gregory Rodriguez, and believes Park can survive Holmes' early explosiveness and then take over, predicting a third-round TKO.

Zane picks Park confidently, describing him as 'really quite good everywhere' with solid footwork, a good jab, takedowns, and brutal top control. He notes that Holmes is extremely raw, awkward, and uncoordinated, with only a puncher's chance. Zane acknowledges the size advantage Holmes has but believes Park's technical skills and pace will overwhelm him.

Big Brady picks Chase Hooper to win by second-round TKO. He highlights Hooper's improved wrestling and striking, and his dangerous ground game, noting that Hooper finished the tough Felipe Colares in his last fight. He contrasts Garcia's sketchy chin and poor grappling defense, referencing Garcia's fight against Luis Pena where he was controlled for 14 minutes. Brady believes Hooper will get the fight to the mat and finish Garcia.

Cody picks Chase Hooper, noting his improvements in wrestling and striking, and his physical maturity. He criticizes Steve Garcia's poor chin, striking defense, and lack of X-factor. Cody expects Hooper to take Garcia down, backpack him with a body triangle, and finish with ground and pound. He likes Hooper by knockout at +475.

Connor picks Hooper confidently, highlighting his improved understanding of MMA grappling and his aggressive ground and pound. He notes that Garcia's game is built on getting to the pocket and taking people down, which will give Hooper opportunities to wrap him up and do damage. Connor compares it to Garcia's fight against Luis Pena, but with more damage coming back.

Daniel Levi picks Chase Hooper, citing his heart, improvement, and grappling skills. He notes Garcia's weight issues and recent KO losses. He references the Luis Pena fight where Pena backpacked Garcia, giving confidence in Hooper's grappling. He is not interested in laying -260.

Jacob is very confident in Chase Hooper, citing his improved striking, toughness, and elite grappling. He notes Steve Garcia gets dropped often and has chin issues, and if Garcia wrestles, that plays into Hooper's strengths. Jacob sees a potential TKO or submission for Hooper.

Hooper is a jiu-jitsu ace but his striking is still developing. Garcia has power but poor takedown defense and can be controlled against the cage. Hooper should be able to take Garcia down and work for a submission, similar to Luis Pena's performance. However, the heavy chalk on Hooper is concerning given his past struggles. The submission prop at +250 is appealing.

Paul picks Chase Hooper but is hesitant to bet at -300. He notes Hooper's youth and development, but is concerned about his wrestling and stand-up still being works in progress. Paul says he will pick Hooper for the show but may not bet him.

The MMA Guru picks Chase Hooper over Steve Garcia, impressed by Hooper's last performance where he gassed out and finished Felipe Colares. He notes Hooper's grappling pace and ability to drown opponents on the ground. He believes Garcia, coming off a brutal KO loss, will struggle with Hooper's pressure and that Hooper will win by 29-28 decision, losing the first but winning the last two rounds.

Zane picks Hooper confidently, noting his huge improvements in striking and grappling aggression. He describes Hooper as a super technical grappler who now uses ground and pound effectively. Zane argues that Garcia's style of pushing into the pocket and clinching plays directly into Hooper's strengths, and that Garcia is not a great athlete, making him vulnerable to Hooper's submissions and control.

Big Brady picks Carlos Mota to win by decision. He notes that Mota is the better striker with good takedown defense and get-up game, while Durden's path to victory relies on wrestling for three rounds, which Brady doubts he can sustain. He mentions that Mota's cardio is typically good, though he slowed in the Charles Johnson fight. Brady acknowledges the line has flipped and that Durden might be slept on, but he is impressed with Mota's skills.

Cody picks Carlos Mota, liking his striking and footwork. He questions Mota's grappling but believes Mota's stand-up will be enough. Cody notes that Cody Durden tends to fatigue in later rounds and is hittable. He mentions Mota by knockout as a possible attack, but is cautious due to Mota taking the fight on short notice.

Connor leans toward Mota, agreeing with Zane that Durden's aggressive style could set him up for Mota's counters. He notes that Durden has a good jab but tends to throw himself into his strikes, which could lead to getting hit hard. Connor also mentions that Mota is a fun fighter with good trigger counters, and that Durden's tendency to burn out could be a factor.

Daniel Levi picks Cody Durden, citing his toughness, durability, and ability to break opponents down the stretch. He acknowledges Mota's devastating power and early-round danger, but believes if Durden survives the first round, he will break Mota. He is looking to bet Durden at plus odds and considers it a potential next play.

Jacob picks Cody Durden as the safe play due to his wrestling, but he is hesitant because Carlos Mota is a live dog on short notice. He notes that if Durden stands and trades, he could be in trouble, and Mota has good striking. Jacob emphasizes that the value may be on Mota and suggests inside the distance/decision no action.

Mota is the better striker and a BJJ black belt, which should neutralize Durden's grappling. Despite short notice, Mota is always ready and has been waiting for this UFC opportunity. Durden is durable but Mota's striking should find a knockout blow. The line movement from +125 to -170 indicates sharp money on Mota.

Paul picks Carlos Mota, citing his LFA title fight experience and solid skills. He notes Durden's tendency to gas and his weight cut struggles. Paul says he will roll with Mota but advises watching weigh-ins before betting significant money.

The MMA Guru picks Cody Durden over Carlos Mota, going against the majority. He believes Durden's longer training camp and preparation for a wild opponent like Clayton Rodriguez will help him handle Mota's early chaos. He expects Durden to take over in later rounds and win by 29-28 decision, as Mota is stepping in on short notice and may have octagon jitters.

Zane picks Mota for the upset, citing his dangerous counter hooks and willingness to exchange. He notes that Durden is a strong starter who tends to burn out and gets wild, which could play into Mota's counters. Zane also mentions that Durden has a tendency to get submitted quickly and that Mota's conditioning on short notice is a concern, but he likes Mota's trigger counters and believes he can catch Durden coming in.

Big Brady picks Christian Rodriguez to win by second-round knockout. He notes that Rodriguez is on a full camp while Weems is on short notice, and that Rodriguez has shown good cardio and power, as seen in his fight against Jonathan Pierce. He believes Rodriguez will keep the fight standing and break Weems down with volume and power, as Weems primarily wins by submission off his back and is unlikely to get takedowns against Rodriguez.

Cody picks Christian Rodriguez, praising his striking and grappling. He notes Rodriguez's impressive performance against JSP on short notice and believes he is a solid prospect. Cody criticizes Joshua Weems' bare-knuckle boxing background and his loss to Fernie Garcia on the Contender Series. He expects Rodriguez to score a significant knockout early.

Connor picks Weems with a lean, agreeing with Zane that Weems's aggression and power could be decisive. He notes that Rodriguez has a tendency to let opponents dictate the fight, and Weems will try to dictate. Connor also mentions that Rufus Sport fighters often have a sparring mentality and struggle when the fight gets violent, which favors Weems.

Daniel Levi picks Christian Rodriguez, comparing him to Emmanuel Sanchez. He praises Rodriguez's technical striking, scrambling, and toughness, noting his close fight with JSP on short notice. He views Weems as less fundamentally sound and lacking volume. He regrets missing the opener at -160 and will not bet at -350.

Rodriguez has great takedown defense and striking combinations, while Weems relies on submissions from bottom position. Rodriguez's move to Fight Ready MMA in Arizona should improve his game. Weems is likely not UFC caliber and will struggle with Rodriguez's distance management and power. Expect a knockout victory for Rodriguez.

Paul picks Christian Rodriguez, noting his sharp striking and opportunistic grappling. He mentions that Rodriguez looked good against JSP despite the loss. Paul is unimpressed with Weems' resume and believes Rodriguez will intercept him if Weems doesn't get the grappling going early.

Zane picks Weems with a lean, citing his better athleticism and aggression. He notes that Rodriguez is a weird, funky striker with questionable application and a flashy grappling game that doesn't always put him in good positions. Zane believes Weems's brawling style and power could overwhelm Rodriguez, who tends to let opponents dictate the pace.