UFC Fight Night: Yan vs. Figueiredo

Angelo picks Petr Yan, citing his superior striking and takedown defense. He acknowledges Figueiredo's improved wrestling and cardio at bantamweight but believes Yan's five-round experience and size advantage will be key. He admits a weird feeling about Figueiredo and may not bet.

Big Brady picks Petr Yan to win by decision. He thinks it's a bad matchup for Figueiredo, who is older (36), smaller, and a low-volume striker relying on power that likely won't hurt Yan. Yan is younger, has better cardio and volume, and is durable. Brady doesn't believe Figueiredo has the wrestling to take Yan down, as even Merab was unsuccessful. He expects Yan to outwork Figueiredo over five rounds, possibly with a late finish.

Cody picks Petr Yan because of his superior cardio and volume striking over five rounds. He notes Figueiredo is a power puncher with a limited gas tank who relies on early knockdowns and takedowns, but Yan's takedown defense and endless motor will allow him to outwork Figueiredo in the later rounds. He expects Yan to win by decision and sees a live betting opportunity if Yan starts slow.

Connor agrees with Zane, picking Yan because Figueiredo's cautious, low-output style and declining speed play into Yan's strengths. He notes that Yan's confidence may be shaken but Figueiredo won't pressure him early like Merab did. Connor also highlights that Figueiredo's gas tank is worse and he may be content to lose a quiet decision, which suits Yan's late-round surge.

Daniel Vreeland believes Petr Yan will win despite being a slow starter. He expects Figueiredo to have early success with calf kicks and submission attempts, but as Yan makes his reads and gets his timing down, he will take over. Vreeland notes Yan's superior boxing and timing-based takedowns, and thinks Yan can either finish late or win a decision. He is confident Yan dictates the pace and pulls away.

James picks Petr Yan to win but is hesitant due to the -300 price tag, which he considers too wide. He acknowledges Yan's superior striking volume and five-round experience, but notes Figueiredo's one-punch power and athleticism could cause an upset. He believes the fight is likely a 48-47 decision for Yan, but may take a small position on Figueiredo based on value.

Paul agrees with Cody, emphasizing that Figueiredo would be a live dog in a three-round fight but cannot maintain the pace over five rounds. He highlights Yan's endless gas tank and the fact that Figueiredo cannot replicate Merab's takedown volume. Paul thinks Yan wins on volume and suggests a live bet if Yan starts slow, but warns the line may move quickly.

The MMA Guru picks Petr Yan over Deiveson Figueiredo, emphasizing the five-round advantage. He argues Figueiredo is explosive early but fades, while Yan's cardio and boxing improve as the fight goes on. He predicts Yan will weather early storms, then take over in later rounds with takedowns and ground and pound, finishing Figueiredo in round four or five. He compares it to Yan's fight against Jose Aldo. He notes Figueiredo's wins over Cody Garbrandt, Rob Font, and Marlon Vera but believes Yan's boxing is crisper than Moreno's.

Zane picks Petr Yan, arguing that Yan's process-oriented fighting style, which builds through rounds, will overcome Figueiredo's declining speed and output. He notes that Figueiredo has lost some speed and relies on strength and caution, but Yan's ability to adapt and pressure late in fights gives him the edge. Zane also mentions that Yan's confidence issues stem from the Merab fight, but Figueiredo's style won't exploit that as effectively.

Angelo picks Yan Xiaonan, praising her boxing and technical striking. He acknowledges Tabatha Ricci's pressure and cardio but believes Yan's skills and takedown defense will prevail. He suggests the over 2.5 rounds is a good bet.

Big Brady picks Tabatha Ricci with little confidence. He thinks the odds are off and that Yan Xiaonan's takedown defense is questionable, recalling the Carla Esparza loss where Yan was easily taken down. If Ricci can get takedowns, she can win minutes on top. Even on the feet, Ricci can push Yan against the cage and burn clock. Brady sees a path for Ricci to win by decision but is not confident.

Cody picks Ricci as a live underdog, arguing that Yan's takedown defense is suspect and Ricci's grappling is elite. He notes that Ricci has taken down multiple black belts and that Yan was exposed by Carla Esparza's wrestling. He believes Ricci can get takedowns, control top position, and grind out a decision or even a submission. He likes Ricci by decision at plus money.

Connor also picks Yan, emphasizing that Yan's boxing is far superior and that Ricci's grappling, while strong, may not be effective against a bigger, high-output striker. He notes that Ricci's top game is static and she struggles to finish, so Yan can survive takedowns and win on the feet. Connor agrees that the three-round format helps Ricci but still favors Yan.

Daniel Vreeland is a long-time Yan Xiaonan backer and continues the trend here. He sees a big size and striking advantage for Yan, noting Ricci's janky striking and poor top control. He references Ricci's inability to hold down Angela Hill and believes Yan's improved takedown defense and toughness will allow her to get back up. He expects Yan to light Ricci up on the feet and win decisively.

James leans towards Yan Xiaonan as the better striker, but is cautious due to Yan coming off a brutal loss and Ricci's improving grappling. He expects Yan to win a 29-28 decision on damage, but considers it a pass fight with no strong betting opinion.

Paul picks Yan Xiaonan but is hesitant, noting that Ricci has a path to victory via takedowns and control. He thinks Yan's striking power and ferocity will be the difference, but she must stay off her back and get up immediately if taken down. He expects a close fight that goes to decision and could see a split.

The MMA Guru picks Yan Xiaonan over Tabatha Ricci, citing Yan's better boxing, range control, and size advantage. He notes Yan has fought top competition, including a decision loss to Zhang Weili where she dropped Zhang, and wins over Jessica Andrade and Mackenzie Dern. He believes Ricci's 'bunder' won't sway judges in China. He predicts a decision win for Yan.

Zane picks Yan Xiaonan, citing her superior striking volume, technique, and power. He acknowledges Ricci's improved boxing and strong double-leg takedown, but doubts Ricci's ability to control Yan on the ground due to size and static top game. Zane also notes that the three-round format helps Ricci, but Yan's striking advantage should carry her if she avoids being controlled for two rounds.

Angelo picks Muslim Salikhov, criticizing Song Kenan's low fight IQ and lack of killer instinct. He notes Salikhov's wrestling and striking power, and expects him to capitalize on Song's mistakes. He calls Song 'one punch or bust' and an idiot inside the cage.

Big Brady picks Muslim Salikhov to win by knockout. He admits he usually picks against Salikhov due to his age (40, possibly older), low volume, and questionable cardio, but he sees Song Kenan as a walking punching bag with low volume and poor durability. Brady thinks Salikhov can knock out Song, who has been knocked out four times. However, he is hesitant and wants to stay away from this fight.

Cody picks Salikhov but with low confidence, citing Song Kenan's poor defensive striking and tendency to absorb high volume. He thinks Salikhov's flashy, low-volume style can land the more significant shots and potentially clip Song. He expects a close decision or a late knockout for Salikhov, but warns that Song could outwork him if he walks into the fire.

Connor agrees with Zane, noting that Song Kenan's pace is exactly what Salikhov thrives on—slow and methodical, allowing Salikhov to use feints and set up his strikes. He also points out that Salikhov's traditional martial arts background gives him a soft landing for aging, and he remains uninjury-prone. Connor acknowledges Song's power but thinks Salikhov's technical edge wins.

Daniel Vreeland picks Muslim Salikhov but expresses concern about his age (40). He acknowledges Salikhov's superior skills, spinning attacks, and counter striking, but worries about durability and slowing down. He notes Song Kenan has heavy hands but lacks volume and takedown defense. Vreeland thinks Salikhov has more ways to win and should stay at range to avoid exchanges.

James confidently picks Song Kenan as an underdog, believing Muslim Salikhov is washed at 40 years old with declining durability and cardio. He thinks Song's power and youth can lead to a knockout, and sees value at +160.

Paul also picks Salikhov, noting that Song Kenan is hittable and Salikhov is more defensively sound. He acknowledges Salikhov is 40 years old but believes his experience and ability to land flashy techniques will edge him a close decision. He expects a low-volume, tactical fight where Salikhov steals rounds with significant strikes.

The MMA Guru picks Muslim Salikhov over Song Kenan, despite initially considering Song. He notes Song has been tricky but has losses to Max Griffin and a split decision with Santiago Ponzinibbio. He criticizes Song's win over Ricky Glenn as not dominant. He acknowledges Salikhov is 40 but coming off a win and active. He believes Salikhov is powerful and faster.

Zane picks Salikhov, arguing that Song Kenan's one-punch-at-a-time striking style will be neutralized by Salikhov's educated jab and range control. He notes that Song loses to good strikers who can out-volume him, and Salikhov's feints and kicking game will keep Song guessing. Zane also mentions Salikhov's durability and consistent activity despite being 40.

Angelo is very confident in Wang Cong, citing her kickboxing background and power. He believes Fernandes will struggle with Wang's power and resort to desperate takedowns. He calls it one of his most confident picks on the card.

Big Brady picks Wang Cong to win by decision. He thinks Wang is the better striker and also has a sneaky path to victory via takedowns, as Fernandes can be taken down and controlled on the mat. Despite the massive -800 line, Brady expects Wang to get it done, likely on the feet or with grappling.

Cody agrees, calling Wang a legitimate prospect with world-class kickboxing. He notes that Fernandes has been taken down and outstruck in recent fights, and Wang's physicality in the clinch will be too much. He expects Wang to win big, possibly by knockout or even submission, as she continues to develop her grappling.

Connor also picks Wang, comparing her to a more athletic Yan Xiaonan with less experience. He notes that Fernandes is not a great grappler but a physical fighter, and Wang's athleticism and striking should prevail. Connor acknowledges that Wang's ground game could implode under pressure but thinks it's unlikely against Fernandes. He agrees the odds are too wide.

Daniel Vreeland picks Wang Cong despite the steep -800 line. He highlights her clean kickboxing, having beaten Valentina Shevchenko in a kickboxing match, and her well-rounded game including takedowns. He acknowledges Gabriella Fernandes' power and improving get-up game but sees a clear technique gap. He expects Wang Cong to pick her apart, though not necessarily with a highlight-reel KO.

James leans towards Wang Cong as a real prospect, but admits he hasn't done full tape study. He notes Wang's striking and thinks Fernandes is not a great fighter, but the -800 price is too high to bet. He may look for a decision or KO prop after further research.

Paul picks Wang Cong confidently, noting her elite striking and improving grappling. He points out that Fernandes is not a strong grappler and has been outmuscled in the clinch. He expects Wang to win by knockout, possibly early, and sees this as a showcase fight to build her up.

The MMA Guru picks Wang Cong confidently, citing her aura, power, KO ability, and kickboxing background. He mentions she knocked out Victoria Leonardo and beat Valentina Shevchenko in kickboxing. He acknowledges Gabriella Fernandes is strong and athletic but lost to Jazzy Decious and Theresa Bleda. He predicts a KO win for Wang Cong.

Zane picks Wang Cong, citing her superior striking speed, power, and form. He notes that Fernandes is a cumbersome striker who will likely get countered repeatedly. Zane also mentions that Wang showed composure when grappled in previous fights, which should help against Fernandes' physical but not elite grappling. However, he warns that Wang is untested and the odds are too wide.

Angelo initially was very confident in Ulberg but became more hesitant after reviewing Oezdemir's resume and chin. He still picks Ulberg as the much better striker but acknowledges Oezdemir's takedown threat and experience. He notes Oezdemir hasn't been knocked out since 2020.

Big Brady picks Carlos Ulberg to win by decision. He believes Ulberg is the better striker with more volume and power, and Oezdemir is unlikely to wrestle. Brady notes Oezdemir has looked like he's losing a step, citing the Paul Craig fight where he seemed slow. He expects Ulberg to outwork Oezdemir over 15 minutes in a competitive but clear decision.

Cody picks Ulberg, citing his speed, power, and improved cardio and grappling. He notes that Oezdemir is a first-round knockout threat but fades in later rounds and has been taken down. Ulberg's diverse skill set and ability to mix takedowns give him multiple paths to victory. He expects Ulberg to win by decision or late knockout.

Connor also picks Ulberg, but notes that Oezdemir could win if he pressures and lands big combinations. He compares Ulberg to Charbel Magomedov, saying he is fast but vulnerable when pressured. Connor expects a sticky split decision where Ulberg jabs from range and Oezdemir has moments of success, but Ulberg's speed and reach should edge it.

Daniel Vreeland is confident Carlos Ulberg will win, citing his superior athleticism, speed, and slick striking. He praises Ulberg's left hook and step-back counter. He views Volkan Oezdemir as a solid but limited gatekeeper who is too meat-and-potatoes for the new breed. Vreeland predicts a left hook knockout by Ulberg.

James does not give a clear pick for this fight, citing inside information from Ulberg's camp that he keeps private. He notes the odds seem based on recency bias and that Ulberg is stepping up in competition. He suggests the line may be off but does not reveal his lean.

Paul agrees, highlighting Ulberg's speed and technical striking advantage. He thinks Oezdemir will struggle to land his power shots and may force a dogfight, but Ulberg's improved cardio and fight IQ will carry him. He notes that Ulberg's grappling is a question mark, but Oezdemir doesn't have the wrestling to exploit it.

The MMA Guru picks Carlos Ulberg over Volkan Oezdemir, despite acknowledging Oezdemir's potential to fraud-check prospects. He notes Oezdemir's hype was built on not getting hit, but since then only has a KO over Johnny Walker and couldn't finish Paul Craig. He believes Ulberg is more talented, trains at a good gym (City Kickboxing), and is now or never at 34. He predicts a competitive decision win for Ulberg.

Zane picks Ulberg, arguing that his jab and range control will frustrate Oezdemir, who struggles against kickboxers that sit on a jab. He notes that Oezdemir's poor defensive striking and fragile confidence will be exposed if Ulberg can stick him from distance. Zane compares it to the Rakic fight, expecting a split decision where Ulberg's jab wins rounds.

Angelo picks Zhang Mingyang, citing his superior grappling and power. He notes Ozzy Diaz is chinny and skinny, and expects Zhang to finish inside the distance. He suggests looking for extra juice on Zhang inside the distance.

Big Brady picks Zhang Mingyang to win by first-round knockout. He thinks the odds are off but notes Ozzy Diaz is very hitable and has a questionable chin, often getting beaten up before mounting a comeback. Zhang has tremendous power and is likely to land early. Brady expects a violent first-round finish, as Zhang has never won a fight that went past the first round.

Cody picks Diaz as a live underdog, arguing that Zhang's record is built on weak competition and he has been knocked out or submitted in most losses. Diaz has fought better competition, trains at Kings MMA, and has power and a ground game. He expects a banger where Diaz's experience and durability give him the edge, possibly by knockout.

Connor picks Zhang but hesitantly, noting that Diaz's pressure and composure could take Zhang into the second round, where Zhang historically loses. He acknowledges that King's MMA fighters often overperform and Diaz could survive the early storm. However, Connor thinks Zhang's power and brawling are a good answer for Diaz's style, and he's not ready to fade Zhang yet.

Daniel Vreeland picks Zhang Mingyang, a Chinese knockout artist on a 10-fight win streak. He notes Diaz's tendency to get beaten up early before opponents gas, but believes Zhang will not gas out and will finish him. Vreeland highlights Zhang's devastating ground and pound and chin-finding ability, expecting a knockout in Macau.

Paul agrees, noting that Zhang's wins are over nobodies and his losses are by finish. Diaz has trained with high-level partners and has power in his hands. He thinks the plus money is worth a shot in a volatile matchup where both have knockout power, but Diaz's superior competition gives him the edge.

The MMA Guru picks Zhang Mingyang over Ozzy Diaz, citing Zhang's power and finishing instincts. He notes Zhang knocked out Branson Ribero in his debut and knocked out Tokotos on Road to UFC. He views Diaz as a 'skinny fat' athlete who got smoked by Joe Pyfer and has a questionable win over Bavon Lewis. He predicts a first-round TKO for Zhang.

Zane picks Zhang Mingyang, citing his brawling power and first-round finishing ability. He notes that Diaz is a functional pressure fighter but lacks elite athleticism, and Zhang's power could put him away early. Zane acknowledges that Zhang is a first-round knockout machine and usually loses if he goes past the first, but Diaz's style plays into Zhang's strengths.

Angelo picks the underdog Baergeng Jieleyisi, noting You Su-young's sloppy wrestling and one-dimensional game. He acknowledges Jieleyisi's long legs make him easy to take down but praises his cross-face and knees on entries. He admits the fight could go either way and won't bet on it.

Big Brady picks You Su-young to win by decision. He emphasizes You's wrestling, averaging six takedowns per 15 minutes in his Road to UFC fights, and believes he will dictate where the fight takes place. He expects a scrambly grappling match that goes to a split decision, similar to You's last fight. Brady thinks Jieleyisi can be taken down and makes mistakes on the mat.

Cody picks the Korean fighter, citing his more refined grappling and experience against tougher competition. He notes that both are grapplers with low volume, but the Korean has fought better opponents and shown more polish. He expects a close split decision and leans toward the Korean due to his strength and clinch work.

Daniel Vreeland considers both fighters low-level but gives the edge to Jieleyisi (referred to as Junal) because he is taller, longer, and has better striking. He notes that Su-young has flashy moves but lacks effectiveness, and Jieleyisi is more well-rounded. He picks Jieleyisi as the underdog to win the Road to UFC.

Paul also leans toward the Korean fighter, noting that Korean fighters generally have solid grappling and physicality. He admits it's a blind pick but trusts the Korean development system. He expects a close decision and sees value in the underdog.

The MMA Guru picks Baergeng Jieleyisi (referred to as Balin Jen) over You Su-young. He lists several of Baergeng's wins, including over Naken Nakanishi, which sold him. He acknowledges You Su-young is a good prospect but favors Baergeng's resume and recent win over Shin Nosov.

Angelo picks Kiru Singh Sahota as an underdog, citing his length, range, and ability to cut and bloody Choi. He criticizes Choi's low volume and tendency to bleed. He placed a quarter unit bet at +130 but remains cautious due to unfamiliarity with the fighters.

Big Brady picks Sahota to win by split decision. He notes Sahota has a big height and reach advantage (5 inches height, 6.5 inches reach) and shows more urgency and volume. Choi Dong-hun has gone to split decisions in both his Road to UFC fights and lacks urgency. Brady thinks the fight will be close and go to the judges, with Sahota's size and activity giving him the edge.

Cody picks Sahota, noting his height and reach advantage at flyweight, and his experience on the UK scene. He acknowledges Sahota's takedown defense is a concern but thinks his striking volume and range control can earn a decision. He expects a close fight and likes the plus money.

Daniel Vreeland is very critical of both fighters, calling Sahota a poor athlete and Choi inactive. He reluctantly picks Sahota because he at least shows activity with his jab and kicks, while Choi does nothing for long stretches. He believes Sahota's effort will be enough to win a decision, though he expects this to be Sahota's only UFC win.

Paul has no strong opinion, noting the line has moved and both fighters are similar. He leans slightly toward Choi but with very low confidence, expecting a close decision.

The MMA Guru picks Choi Dong-hun over Kiru Singh Sahota, trusting the undefeated prospect. He notes Sahota is 5'10" for flyweight, which he views as too lanky and likely to be toppled by body or head shots. He mentions Sahota has been knocked out before, losing to Scott Malone. He prefers Choi's frame and potential.

Angelo is extremely confident in Feng Xiaocan, citing her size and wrestling advantages. He expects her to get takedowns and dominate on top. He tried to parlay her but was limited by his book. He calls her safe to parlay and one of his most confident picks.

Big Brady picks Feng Xiaocan to win by decision. He notes Feng is much bigger with a 5-inch height and 6-inch reach advantage, solid movement, and good volume. Shi Ming is very small for the division and has not attempted takedowns in her Road to UFC fights. Brady expects Feng to use her range and keep the fight standing, while Shi Ming will struggle with the size and speed.

Cody picks Feng, arguing that her loss to Nalan came when she was 18 and she has grown since. He notes her strong kickboxing and improved grappling, while Shi Ming is older and has gone to decision against weak opponents. He expects Feng to win by outworking Shi Ming on the feet.

Daniel Vreeland highlights the significant size advantage for Xiaocan, who is 5'7" with a 66-inch reach compared to Ming's 5'2" and 60-inch reach. He notes Xiaocan is younger, physical, and finishes fights, while Ming lacks the technique to overcome the size disparity. He predicts Xiaocan will bully and possibly finish Ming, winning her UFC debut.

Paul picks Feng Xiaocan but is hesitant, citing her loss to Nalan in 2020. He notes that Feng is only 22 and has improved since then, while Shi Ming is older and has fought lower-level competition. He thinks Feng's kickboxing base and youth give her the edge, but the minus-312 price is too steep for comfort.

The MMA Guru picks Feng Xiaocan (referred to as Xiao Chang Fang) over Shi Ming, citing physicality advantages: Feng is larger, younger, and in her prime. He notes Shi Ming is 5'2" at strawweight and has had many losses. He compares it to the Veronica Macedo vs Eduarda Moura fight. He also mentions Feng has more finishing ability, with a knockout on Road to UFC and submission skills, and hasn't lost in 3.5 years.

Angelo picks Carlos Hernandez, valuing his UFC experience and cage time over the undefeated but untested Nyamjargal. He thinks Nyamjargal may get frustrated if the fight goes long. He explicitly says no bet on this fight due to uncertainty.

Big Brady picks Carlos Hernandez to win by third-round submission. He is shocked Hernandez is the favorite given he is usually a big underdog, but after watching Tumendemberel's Road to UFC fights, he saw a 14% takedown defense and poor ground game. Brady believes Hernandez can flip the script and use his grappling to take down and submit his opponent, as Hernandez has hung with tough grapplers before.

Cody agrees, calling Hernandez a proven gatekeeper who has tested prospects. He notes that the Mongolian fighter has been inactive and struggled against a smoker in his last fight. Hernandez's superior striking and cardio should carry him to a win, though he could be knocked out if he's careless.

Daniel Vreeland acknowledges that Carlos Hernandez is more experienced and well-rounded, but notes that Hernandez often fails to separate himself in fights and has lost to green opponents before. He believes Tumendemberel, despite being green, has the killer instinct and could win a close decision. He picks the upset, predicting a controversial split decision.

Paul picks Hernandez, noting his solid chin, grappling, and experience against tough prospects. He thinks the Mongolian fighter is unproven and Hernandez will be a tough gatekeeper. He expects Hernandez to win by decision or late finish, and sees value at minus-185.

The MMA Guru sides with the undefeated newcomer Nyamjargal Tumendemberel, despite acknowledging Carlos Hernandez is good and made it tricky against Ray Surria. He reasons that Hernandez at 9-4 may no longer have title hopes, while the newcomer is undefeated and on the come-up. He admits he almost picked Hernandez for the upset but ultimately goes with the undefeated fighter.

Angelo picks Lone'er Kavanagh, emphasizing his incredible speed and raw power. He believes Kavanagh's high-level training and speed will be the difference, as Ochoa will struggle to see shots coming. He notes both are finishers and suggests an under on round lines could be a play.

Big Brady picks Kavanagh to win by decision. He acknowledges the hype on Kavanagh from his contender series knockout but notes Jose Ochoa is dangerous with power. He believes Kavanagh has more ways to win with better tools on the feet and ground, and can mix in takedowns. He expects a back-and-forth war that goes the distance with Kavanagh getting his hand raised.

Cody picks Kavanagh confidently, calling him a top prospect with dynamic striking and grappling. He notes that Ochoa is a tough Peruvian brawler but lacks the technical skills to hang with Kavanagh. He expects Kavanagh to win by knockout, possibly early, and sees him as a top ticket play.

Daniel Vreeland praises both fighters as studs but gives the edge to Kavanagh due to being more seasoned and having fought higher-level competition. He notes that Ochoa is impressive and could be a top prospect soon, but Kavanagh's experience and maturity make him the pick. However, he mentions he would bet on Ochoa as an underdog due to the value.

Paul agrees, noting Kavanagh's footwork and power are on another level. He acknowledges Ochoa's toughness but thinks Kavanagh's technique will be too much. He expects a dominant performance and is comfortable laying the chalk.

The MMA Guru is high on Lone'er Kavanagh, describing him as a savage with nasty combos and highlight-reel finishes. He notes Kavanagh has faced tougher competition, with his last three opponents having a combined record of 16-0. He believes Kavanagh's power at flyweight and good takedown defense will be key, and predicts a TKO win in round one or two. He thinks it would take a gritty veteran to beat Kavanagh.

Angelo picks Xiao Long, noting Quang Le's striking defense issues despite forward pressure. He expects Xiao to shoot takedowns and control on the ground. He admits it's a tough pick and not his most confident.

Big Brady picks Xiao Long to win by decision. He thinks Quang Le is overrated after his loss to Chris Gutierrez, noting Le had low volume and landed less than 10 significant strikes. He was more impressed with Xiao Long's loss against a tough grappler, where he showed takedown ability and higher output. Brady expects the fight to stay on the feet and favors the more active striker.

Cody picks Quang Le, citing his power and experience against better competition. He notes that Xiao Long has 35 fights but has not been tested, and his recent fights have been close decisions. Quang Le's confidence from his UFC debut and his power give him the edge in a close fight.

Daniel Vreeland sees this as a close fight between Xiao Long's activity and Quang Le's power and impactful moments. He gives the edge to Quang Le because of his experience fighting Chris Gutierrez and his counter-striking ability. He expects a controversial split decision where Quang Le's harder shots sway the judges.

Paul also leans toward Quang Le, noting the market movement and Quang's power. He thinks Xiao Long's split decision losses indicate he is not elite, and Quang Le's ability to finish gives him an edge. He expects a close fight and likes the plus money.

The MMA Guru picks Quang Le based on his finishing potential shown on Road to UFC, contrasting with Xiao Long who tends to scrape by in close decisions. He notes Quang Le is younger at 26 and has fought at WLF Wars, where Shavkat Rakhmonov competed. He believes Quang Le's dominance and finishing ability give him the edge.

Angelo picks Nikolas Motta as an underdog, citing Maheshate's sloppiness and hittability. He believes Motta is faster, more accurate, and a better striker. He notes both are chinny but Motta's technical edge should prevail. He will sprinkle if the line widens to +200 or +250.

Big Brady picks Maheshate to win by second-round knockout. He notes Maheshate is seven years younger, has a height and reach advantage, and is the more active striker. He highlights that Nikolas Motta has been finished in all five of his losses, including four by knockout, while Maheshate has only one knockout loss. Brady believes both have knockout power but Maheshate has better durability.

Cody picks Maheshate, citing his power and youth. He notes that Motta has been knocked out multiple times and fades in later rounds. Maheshate's durability and improving cardio should allow him to win by knockout or decision. He expects a violent finish in Maheshate's favor.

Daniel Vreeland acknowledges Motta's devastating knockout power, noting 10 of his 14 wins are by KO. However, he believes Maheshate has more tools on the feet and can win a decision if he avoids getting knocked out. He leans towards Maheshate due to his youth, size, and more diverse striking, but admits Motta always has a puncher's chance.

Paul picks Maheshate but is hesitant, noting that both have power and can finish. He thinks Motta has more power but less heart, and Maheshate's volume and durability will be key. He suggests a live bet on Motta by KO early, but expects Maheshate to win if it goes past the first round.

The MMA Guru initially considered Maheshate due to his size and reach, but changed his mind after noting Maheshate's split decision win over Gabriel Benitez, which he views as unimpressive. He believes Motta won't get knocked out early and will warm into the fight, ultimately picking Motta to start the card. However, he acknowledges Maheshate's knockout of Steve Garcia, showing hesitation.