UFC on ESPN: Lewis vs. Nascimento

Angelo picks Rodrigo Nascimento as an underdog, expecting him to grapple heavily and win a boring decision. He notes Nascimento's path to victory is closing distance, holding Lewis against the cage, and taking him down. He acknowledges Lewis's power and durability but believes Nascimento can fight a perfect 25 minutes. He is surprised Lewis is the favorite given his 1-4 record in his last five.

Big Brady picks Derrick Lewis to knock out Rodrigo Nascimento in the first round. He notes that Lewis typically picks against Lewis but believes Nascimento is unimpressive, having gone life-and-death with Dontale Mayes and taken Alexey Oleinik to a split decision. He thinks Lewis just needs one big shot and that Nascimento is hittable. He questions if Nascimento will wrestle, as he didn't against Mayes, but expects Lewis to land a knockout.

Cody picks Derrick Lewis, citing Lewis's insane power and ability to get up from takedowns despite a wonky get-up game. He notes that Lewis has a history of losing early rounds but finishing late, as seen against Volkov and Pesta. He believes Nascimento is slow, not durable, and lacks the wrestling to keep Lewis down. Cody suggests Lewis by KO is the most likely outcome but recommends the moneyline for safety.

Daniel Vreeland picks Derrick Lewis, citing his status as the all-time KO leader in the UFC and his ability to explode up from bad positions. He notes that Lewis has to win by knockout, but he leads the UFC in that category. He also mentions that Nascimento has shown heart but that Lewis doesn't often give second chances.

The host picks Nascimento to win by submission, citing his superior grappling and multiple paths to victory. He notes Lewis is knockout-or-bust and that Nascimento's takedown game and top control should be decisive. He expects Nascimento to get the fight to the ground and find a finish. He advises against betting Lewis as a favorite and suggests waiting for a better number on Nascimento.

Paul agrees with Cody, picking Derrick Lewis. He emphasizes that Lewis can lose early rounds but still knock out opponents late, referencing the Volkov and Pesta fights. He notes that Nascimento has poor takedown accuracy (33%) and has struggled against lesser competition. Paul suggests that if Lewis gets taken down early, the live betting line could offer value. He recommends the moneyline over prop bets due to the uncertainty of round.

The MMA Guru picks Derrick Lewis over Rodrigo Nascimento, arguing that Nascimento has never succeeded in grappling against any opponent and that his only win is against Alan Baudot (overturned). He notes that Lewis has been in big spots while this is Nascimento's first main event. He dismisses Nascimento's chances on the feet, saying if you think he'll succeed there, you're guessing.

Angelo picks Nursulton Ruziboev, citing his wrestling and grappling ability, as well as his power in his hands. He notes Ruziboev is a much larger fighter and a capable striker, but worries he might abandon his grappling for striking. He acknowledges Joaquin Buckley's speed, power, and improved movement, but believes Ruziboev's wrestling could be the difference.

Big Brady picks Nursulton Ruziboev to knock out Joaquin Buckley in the first round, calling it a shot in the dark. He notes that Buckley has been knocked out multiple times (by Holland, Curtis, etc.) and Ruziboev has a ton of power. However, he admits he still doesn't know much about Ruziboev, who has over 40 fights but mostly first-round finishes. He thinks Ruziboev's power might be the difference, and if he beats Buckley, he will gain hype.

Cody picks Buckley, noting that Ruziboev has a poor record at 170 lbs (7 of 8 losses at that weight) and tends to gas after the first round. He highlights Buckley's speed, cardio advantage, and ability to explode with big shots. Cody believes Buckley can survive an early onslaught and take over in later rounds, especially with the crowd behind him in St. Louis. He also notes that Ruziboev's takedown defense is suspect and Buckley could mix in wrestling.

Daniel Vreeland picks Joaquin Buckley, noting that Buckley has experience against larger opponents and that Ruziboev's ceiling is likely top 30. He believes Buckley can extend the fight and find his range, and that Ruziboev struggles when he doesn't get an early finish. He also mentions the risk of a letdown spot for Buckley after a big win.

The host picks Buckley to win by knockout in rounds 2 or 3, citing his experience and fight IQ against a less tested opponent. He expects Buckley to mix in grappling and wear down Ruziboev before landing a big shot. He notes Ruziboev's size and reach but questions his weight cut and competition level. The pick is confident for the finish, though he acknowledges unknowns about Ruziboev.

Paul leans towards Ruziboev but is hesitant, citing his size and power advantage. He notes that Ruziboev has a 10-fight winning streak with all finishes in the first round, but his record at 170 is poor. Paul worries about the weight cut and cardio, as Ruziboev has not gone past the first round in years. He suggests waiting for weigh-ins to see how Ruziboev looks at 170. Paul acknowledges Buckley's improvements but thinks Ruziboev could be a 'merer' if he lands early.

The MMA Guru picks Nursulton Ruziboev over Joaquin Buckley, noting Ruziboev's reach and rangy striking style. He believes Buckley's boxing-heavy approach will be neutralized by Ruziboev's length and uppercuts, and that Ruziboev's willingness to cheat (eye pokes) could be an advantage. He predicts a TKO win via uppercut as Buckley comes in.

Angelo picks Carlos Ulberg because he is the better striker with legitimate fight-ending power and excellent takedown defense. He notes Ulberg's striking differential is impressive and he has a professional kickboxing background. He acknowledges Alonzo Menifield's power and takedown defense but believes Ulberg's technical striking and power give him the edge.

Big Brady picks Carlos Ulberg by decision, noting his volume advantage (over double Menifield's) and power. He trusts Ulberg the longer the fight goes, as Menifield typically wins in the first round and has a questionable loss to William Knight. He expects Ulberg to do better work across 15 minutes, and if Menifield wrestles, he will only get tired faster.

Cody picks Ulberg, praising his improved kickboxing and ability to maintain volume without gassing. He notes that Ulberg learned from his loss to Kennedy Nzechukwu and now fights more conservatively, conserving energy. Cody believes Ulberg's superior technique and range will outpoint Menifield, who has poor cardio and relies on power. He also mentions that Menifield's wrestling is not a major threat, as he is not a good wrestler and gasses quickly.

Daniel Vreeland picks Carlos Ulberg, highlighting his counter-striking style and the fact that his only loss came from gassing after a high-output first round. He notes that Ulberg can fight both safely and aggressively, and that Menifield's approach will determine the fight. He believes Ulberg has matured since that loss.

The host confidently picks Ulberg due to his lateral movement, jab, and range management, which should keep Menifield at bay. He notes Menifield's power and ability to change fights with one shot, but believes Ulberg's discipline and striking volume will earn a decision. He expects Ulberg to avoid big shots and outpoint Menifield over three rounds.

Paul picks Ulberg, emphasizing his clean kickboxing and ability to stay at range. He notes that Menifield has struggled against technical strikers like Justin Jacoby, and Ulberg presents similar problems. Paul points out that Menifield's takedowns are muscled and not technically sound, and he gasses quickly. He expects Ulberg to outpoint Menifield or land a kill shot, but advises caution due to Menifield's power.

The MMA Guru picks Carlos Ulberg over Alonzo Menifield, despite considering an upset. He criticizes Menifield's mental game and notes his win over Jacoby was due to Jacoby's recklessness. He believes Ulberg's low kicks and elusive style will be effective, and predicts a late TKO or decision win.

Angelo picks Mateusz Rębecki confidently, citing his relentless grappling, power, and cardio. He notes Rębecki marches forward, throws heavy punches, and dives at legs for takedowns. He acknowledges Diego Ferreira's BJJ and power but believes Rębecki is durable enough to eat a big shot and impose his wrestling. He expects the line to move further in Rębecki's favor.

Big Brady picks Mateusz Rębecki to break down Carlos Diego Ferreira and finish him in the third round by knockout. He notes that Ferreira is 39 years old and past his prime, while Rębecki is well-rounded with good striking, power, wrestling, and submission game. He struggles to see a path to victory for Ferreira, as Rębecki can dictate where the fight takes place and has vicious striking.

Cody picks Rębecki, highlighting his youth, wrestling, and well-rounded game. He notes that Ferreira has a clear path to victory for opponents: wrestle him, tire him out, and avoid submissions. Cody points out that Ferreira has lost to wrestlers like Gamrot, Gillespie, and Dariush, and at 39 with a layoff, he is vulnerable. Rębecki is a strong Polish grappler who should follow the same blueprint. Cody also mentions that Rębecki's record is not fraudulent, as he has beaten quality opponents on the regional scene.

Daniel Vreeland picks Mateusz Rębecki, calling it an honorable passing of the torch. He respects Ferreira but believes Rębecki is a legitimate prospect who deserves the top 15 spot. He notes that Rębecki's only criticism came from his UFC debut where he dominated but had one moment of adversity, which he thinks is overblown.

The host confidently picks Rębecki due to his pressure, pace, and grappling, expecting him to overwhelm the 39-year-old Ferreira. He notes Ferreira's power and BJJ but believes Rębecki's youth and strength will be decisive. He predicts a decision win for Rębecki, as Ferreira should show enough resistance to avoid a finish. The pick is confident, though he acknowledges this is Rębecki's toughest test.

Paul picks Rębecki, agreeing with Cody that Ferreira's losses have come against top-tier wrestlers. He notes that Ferreira is a tough test but Rębecki is a finished product ready to contend. Paul mentions that Rębecki is a BJJ black belt and should be able to handle Ferreira's ground game. He expects Rębecki to win but notes the line is accurate with little value.

The MMA Guru picks Mateusz Rębecki over Carlos Diego Ferreira, calling Rębecki a 'tank' and 'Bruiser.' He highlights Rębecki's wrestling and ability to ragdoll opponents, referencing his win over Loik Radzhabov. He acknowledges Ferreira is a tricky test but believes Rębecki is a class above as a prospect.

Angelo picks Sean Woodson, citing his excellent boxing, reach management, and 84% takedown defense. He notes Woodson uses his length well and is a clean boxer. He expects Woodson to win a decision, as Alex Caceres is durable but not powerful. He is confident in Woodson's ability to keep the fight at distance.

Big Brady picks Sean Woodson by decision, citing his height and reach advantage, volume advantage, and the hometown crowd in St. Louis. He notes that Caceres has a black belt but rarely uses it, so this will be a striker vs. striker matchup. He expects Woodson to do more work over 15 minutes and not have to worry about takedowns, which should give him confidence to throw more volume.

Cody picks Woodson but is hesitant due to Woodson's inconsistency. He notes that Woodson has shown improvements in wrestling and cardio in recent fights, and his length is a major advantage at 145. Cody believes Woodson can outpoint Caceres on the feet and has the takedown defense to avoid submissions. However, he acknowledges that Caceres is a savvy veteran and Woodson has been chinny in the past. Cody ultimately sides with Woodson but is not confident.

Daniel Vreeland picks Sean Woodson, emphasizing his physical attributes (6'2" with 78-inch reach) and his ability to come back from adversity, as seen in the Luis Saldana fight. He believes Woodson's length and jab will be too much for Caceres, and that Woodson is ready to crack the top 15. He predicts a decision win.

The host confidently picks Woodson due to his length, jab, and distance management, which should neutralize Caceres' unorthodox striking. He notes Woodson's improved takedown defense and discipline, expecting him to outpoint Caceres over three rounds. He sees Caceres' grappling as a threat but doubts he can get the fight to the ground. The pick is confident, with a decision victory expected.

Paul picks Caceres as a slight underdog, citing his veteran savvy and ability to win scrambles. He notes that Caceres knocked out Julian Rosa, while Woodson lost to Rosa. Paul thinks the fight will be competitive and that Caceres has value at plus money. However, he is not confident enough to bet it, calling it a 'dog or pass' situation. He mentions that Woodson's improvements could make it close, but he leans towards Caceres.

The MMA Guru picks Sean Woodson over Alex Caceres, citing Caceres' age (35) and recent losses. He notes Woodson's height and reach advantage (4.5 inches) and believes Woodson has looked better recently. He predicts a decision win, possibly with body shots against the cage.

Angelo picks Robelis Despaigne due to his Olympic taekwondo background, size (6'7"), and insane power. He notes Despaigne's last four fights totaled 37 seconds, but admits there is no data on his chin or cardio. He acknowledges Waldo Cortes Acosta's toughness and durability but believes Despaigne's physical advantages are too much.

Big Brady picks Robelis Despaigne to knock out Waldo Cortes Acosta in the first round, likely in the first minute. He is impressed by Despaigne's size (6'7", 87" reach) and his 'death touch,' having knocked out opponents in seconds. He notes that Acosta is not a wrestler, so Despaigne won't have to worry about takedowns. He believes Despaigne is the real deal and passes this step-up in competition.

Cody picks Despaigne but is leaning, not confident. He notes that Despaigne has never been out of the first round and has massive power and reach. However, he is concerned about Despaigne's lack of grappling and cardio. Cody prefers the under 1.5 rounds prop, which he parlayed with other unders, as it covers both a Despaigne KO or a potential submission loss. He is not willing to bet Despaigne's moneyline due to the unknowns.

Daniel Vreeland picks Robelis Despaigne, calling himself on the Despaigne hype train. He notes Despaigne's incredible reach (longest in UFC history), Olympic taekwondo background, and brutal knockouts. He acknowledges that Despaigne hasn't proven it against top competition but believes he will knock out Cortes-Acosta, who has been knocked out in a boxing match before.

The host expects Despaigne to win by first-round knockout, citing his massive size, speed, and power advantage. He notes Cortes Acosta has never been KO'd in MMA but has been knocked out in boxing, and believes Despaigne's style will overwhelm him. He prefers the round 1 KO prop at even money rather than the moneyline at -200. The pick is confident for the finish, though he acknowledges Despaigne's one-dimensional style.

Paul picks Cortes Acosta as a confident underdog. He argues that Despaigne is a mystery with no proven grappling or cardio, while Cortes Acosta has multiple paths to victory: volume, cardio, takedowns, and durability. Paul notes that Cortes Acosta has never been knocked out in MMA and has fought tough competition. He believes Despaigne's lack of experience and training at a small gym will be exposed. Paul sees value at plus money and is willing to fade the hype.

The MMA Guru picks Robelis Despaigne over Waldo Cortes Acosta, noting that Cortes Acosta nearly lost to Jared Vanderaa and has questionable wins. He believes Despaigne's reach and kicking background will be key, and that he can chew up Cortes Acosta's legs. He predicts a TKO win, though he acknowledges the odds are closer than expected.

Angelo picks Viacheslav Borshchev because of his striking advantage and Chase Hooper's poor takedown offense (22% accuracy). He notes Borshchev has a professional kickboxing background and can defend takedowns well enough. He acknowledges Hooper's dangerous BJJ but believes Borshchev can keep the fight standing and land punishment.

Big Brady picks Slava Borshchev to win by first-round knockout, but admits it's a tough call and he could look stupid. He notes that on the feet, Borshchev has a huge advantage, as Hooper has been knocked down repeatedly by strikers like Steve Garcia. However, if Hooper gets the fight to the ground, he will dominate. Borshchev has poor takedown defense (36%), but Hooper's wrestling may not be as good as previous opponents. He hopes Borshchev stuffs takedowns and makes it look easy.

Cody picks Hooper as a confident underdog, noting that Borshchev has terrible takedown defense (35% in UFC) and has been taken down 24 times in 6 fights. Hooper, despite his own takedown accuracy issues, should be able to take Borshchev down and dominate on the ground with his elite BJJ. Cody believes Hooper's cardio and tenacity will allow him to survive early striking exchanges and find takedowns later. He already bet Hooper at plus 140.

Daniel Vreeland picks Chase Hooper, noting that Borshchev has poor takedown defense, especially when tired. He believes Hooper can weather the early storm and drag Borshchev to the ground for a ground-and-pound TKO or submission. He mentions that Hooper has moved up to 155 and is growing into his body.

The host leans Borshchev due to his improved takedown defense and striking advantage. He expects Borshchev to land big shots as Hooper recklessly closes distance, and hopes his submission defense holds up on the mat. He acknowledges Hooper's grappling danger but thinks Borshchev can survive and find a knockout. The pick is a lean, as he understands the underdog appeal.

Paul picks Hooper, echoing Cody's reasoning. He emphasizes that Borshchev's takedown defense is abysmal and that Hooper, despite his own flaws, has the grappling to exploit it. Paul notes that Hooper has shown heart and improvement at 155, and his BJJ is elite. He expects Hooper to get the fight to the ground and submit or control Borshchev. Paul calls it a 'dog pick' and is confident Hooper can win.

The MMA Guru picks Viacheslav Borshchev over Chase Hooper, despite acknowledging Hooper's improvement. He believes the striking gap is too large and that Borshchev's leg kicks and body shots will be effective. He notes that Hooper lacks the strength to power through takedowns against Borshchev, who has good takedown defense. He predicts a body shot TKO finish.

Angelo picks Esteban Ribovics as the more durable and dependable fighter, despite Terrance McKinney's raw talent and explosiveness. He notes Ribovics has been taken down 14 times in his last five fights, but McKinney has been finished in every loss. He acknowledges the fight is close to 50/50 and that McKinney could win if he lands early.

Big Brady picks Esteban Ribovics to survive McKinney's early storm and finish him in the late first or second round by knockout. He notes McKinney has never won a UFC fight past the first round and tends to gas if he doesn't finish early. Ribovics has durability, cardio, heart, and finishing ability. He expects McKinney to try wrestling, but if he doesn't finish, he will fade and get finished himself.

Cody picks Ribovics, noting that McKinney is a 'glass cannon' who gasses after the first round. He expects McKinney to come out fast and possibly take Ribovics down early, but Ribovics has shown he can survive and come back. Cody likes the under 1.5 rounds prop as parlay fodder, as McKinney fights are usually short. He suggests live betting Ribovics if McKinney wins the first round.

Daniel Vreeland picks Esteban Ribovics, noting that McKinney is dangerous in the first round but fades if he doesn't get the finish. He believes Ribovics can survive the early onslaught and take over late, getting a finish. He mentions Ribovics' ability to get back to his feet and his late-round power.

The host expects McKinney's early explosiveness to overwhelm Ribovics, likely via knockout in round 1. He notes McKinney's tendency to gas but believes Ribovics' takedown defense issues will be exploited. He strongly recommends the under 1.5 rounds as a must-play, and also likes McKinney round 1 prop. The pick is confident for the early finish, though he acknowledges the risk if McKinney fails.

Paul picks Ribovics, agreeing that McKinney is a first-round specialist who fades. He notes that Ribovics has a strong chin and cardio, and can take McKinney's best shots. Paul expects Ribovics to survive the early storm and take over in the second round. He also likes the under 1.5 rounds prop due to McKinney's tendency to finish or get finished quickly.

The MMA Guru picks Terrance McKinney as an underdog over Esteban Ribovics. He notes that McKinney has a wrestling background he doesn't always use but can rely on, and that Ribovics is hook-heavy with a reach disadvantage. He references Ribovics' fight with Kamuela Kirk where Kirk took him down and controlled him, suggesting McKinney can do the same. He also trusts McKinney's cardio and power on the feet.

Angelo picks Tabatha Ricci because he doubts Tecia Pennington will be the same fighter after having a baby and a two-year layoff. He notes Ricci's relentless takedowns and top pressure, and that she has beaten good grapplers. He acknowledges Pennington's well-rounded skills but thinks the layoff and motherhood are too big a question mark.

Big Brady picks Tecia Pennington (Torres) for the upset, despite acknowledging red flags like her two-year layoff after having a baby. He believes Torres has the better striking and volume, and that even if Ricci takes her down, Torres has a good get-up game and is physically strong. He notes Ricci's path to victory is getting takedowns, but she failed to do so in losses to Fiorot and Lupi. He expects the fight to primarily take place standing, favoring Torres.

Cody picks Pennington but is leaning, not confident. He notes that Pennington (formerly Torres) has a history of high volume and has fought the best, but she is coming off a layoff and a loss. He thinks her volume and takedown defense will be key, and she can outwork Ricci on the feet. However, he acknowledges it's a coin flip and wishes for better plus money.

Daniel Vreeland picks Tabatha Ricci, but hesitantly. He notes that Tecia Pennington is the better fighter on her best day, but she is coming off a pregnancy, which often leads to a drop in performance. He also questions Ricci's level but thinks the pregnancy factor gives Ricci the edge. He acknowledges it could go either way.

The host picks Pennington due to her takedown defense and striking speed, which should keep the fight upright and cause Ricci problems. He notes the long layoff after childbirth as a concern but thinks the stylistic matchup favors her. He would only bet if the line moves to +150, indicating a lean rather than a confident play.

Paul picks Pennington, citing her volume and experience. He notes that Ricci's striking is stiff and she relies on takedowns, but Pennington has good takedown defense. Paul thinks Pennington can outwork Ricci in a competitive decision. However, he is not confident and calls it a coin flip.

The MMA Guru picks Tecia Pennington (formerly Torres) as an underdog over Tabatha Ricci. He criticizes Ricci's standup as 'atrocious' and notes that Ricci only wins when she gets takedowns, which Pennington's wrestling background should prevent. He highlights Pennington's ability to avoid being held down and her superior striking, predicting a clear decision win.

Angelo picks Trey Waters, citing his size (6'5" at welterweight), takedown defense, and striking offense. He notes that Waters defended seven takedowns in his last fight and out-struck his opponent. He acknowledges Billy Goff's well-roundedness but believes Waters' size and power will be too much. He mentions the line movement from Goff being a favorite to now a dog.

Big Brady picks Billy Goff to knock out Trey Waters in the second round. He believes Goff will pressure Waters, who has a hands-down style and is hittable, and that Goff's power will catch Waters. He notes that Goff is a dog who can come back from adversity, while Waters has a solid chin but can be hit. He expects a knockout and thinks Goff will be the one doing the serving.

Cody picks Waters, noting his length, volume, and ability to fight at range. He believes Waters can outpoint Goff, who is a brawler with poor defense. Cody mentions that Waters has good cardio and chin, and Goff's wild style leaves openings. He also notes that Goff's takedown threat is uncertain, and if he doesn't wrestle, Waters will piece him up. Cody likes Waters by decision at plus odds.

Daniel Vreeland picks Trey Waters, citing his significant length advantage (6'5" with 77-inch reach) and smooth striking style. He believes Goff is too hittable and will struggle to close the distance. He predicts Waters will pick Goff apart and eventually get a finish, possibly under 2.5 rounds.

The host likes Goff's pressure and durability to overcome Waters' height and reach advantage. He expects Goff to crash the pocket effectively, mix in takedowns, and potentially finish. He notes Waters struggled against pressure and grappling in the past. The pick is a lean, as he acknowledges Waters' tough puzzle but favors Goff's style.

Paul picks Waters, agreeing with Cody. He notes that Waters has a reach advantage and uses it well, as seen against Quinlan. Goff is a brawler who leaves his chin out and has been hurt before. Paul thinks Waters can avoid Goff's power and outwork him. He is comfortable with Waters as a slight favorite.

The MMA Guru picks Trey Waters over Billy Goff, noting that most people are picking Goff as an underdog but he disagrees. He believes Waters' long, rangy style and distance control will be problematic for Goff, who likes to fight on the inside and walk opponents down. He also questions Goff's level of competition and thinks Waters has more room for improvement.

Angelo leans towards Jake Hadley because he cannot trust Charles Johnson's one phenomenal showing over several mediocre ones. He notes Hadley has good takedowns and BJJ, though his takedown accuracy is low due to bailing on attempts. He acknowledges that if the version of Johnson that beat Azat Maksum shows up, he wins, but that version has only appeared once.

Big Brady picks Charles Johnson, citing the hometown advantage in St. Louis and the possibility that Johnson can do enough on the feet while mixing in takedowns. He notes that Johnson has been taken down in every UFC fight but that Hadley has zero takedowns in the UFC, so the fight likely stays standing. He is not confident because Johnson can be low volume and hesitant, but if the version that fought Maxim shows up, he can win. He expects a decision and thinks the hometown rub could help Johnson in a close fight.

Cody picks Johnson as a confident underdog. He argues that Hadley is overhyped, with poor cardio, weak striking, and a questionable chin. Johnson has excellent get-up game, having been taken down many times but always getting back up. He also has superior boxing and volume. Cody believes Johnson can stuff takedowns or get up quickly, and outwork Hadley on the feet. He notes that Hadley has looked bad against wrestlers and grapplers, and Johnson is a tough veteran.

Daniel Vreeland picks Charles Johnson, noting that the fighters who beat Johnson are relentless wrestlers, which Hadley is not. He believes Johnson's cardio and volume will be key, and that Hadley's weight cut (walking around 160 lbs) will be a factor. He predicts a unanimous decision win for Johnson.

Paul picks Johnson, echoing Cody's reasoning. He notes that Johnson showed improved takedown defense in his last fight and has never been submitted. Hadley's cardio and striking are suspect, and Johnson's volume should win rounds. Paul thinks Johnson's get-up game and durability will be key. He is confident in the underdog.

The MMA Guru picks Charles Johnson as an underdog over Jake Hadley. He criticizes Hadley's performance against Cody Durden, particularly his inability to secure takedowns and his stationary style. He praises Johnson's elusiveness, outside movement, Olympic-level cardio, and world-class takedown defense. He believes Johnson's style will frustrate Hadley and that Hadley's best wins come against fighters who stand in front of him.

Angelo picks JJ Aldrich as an underdog, citing her improved striking and takedown defense in her last two fights. He notes she has an experience edge and a willingness to move forward. He acknowledges Veronica Hardy's technical striking and wrestling but believes Aldrich is more well-rounded. He also bets the over 2.5 rounds.

Big Brady picks Veronica Hardy because she is younger and has shown improvement since her layoff, looking like a completely different fighter. He notes that Hardy beat Juliana Miller decisively and had a competitive split decision win over Jamey-Lyn Horth. However, he acknowledges the fight is extremely close and expects it to go to a split decision, with the judges being unreliable. He prefers Hardy's upside over Aldridge's decent but limited game.

Cody picks Hardy, citing her improvements since marrying Dan Hardy. He notes that she has shown a well-rounded game, including takedowns and smart game plans. He believes she can mix in takedowns to keep Aldrich guessing and outwork her on the feet. Cody also mentions that Hardy trained at Renzo Gracie's for this camp, indicating a focus on grappling. He expects Hardy to win a competitive decision.

Daniel Vreeland picks Veronica Hardy, noting her improvements in strength and conditioning and her ability to get back up from bottom. He believes Hardy has leveled up, while JJ Aldrich has remained the same. He predicts a decision win for Hardy, though he doesn't like the short price.

The host leans Hardy due to her movement and speed, which will allow her to land effective damage in the first 6-7 minutes. He notes that Aldrich is not as aggressive as Hardy's previous opponent, allowing Hardy to dictate range. He expects Hardy to win on the scorecards, though Aldrich's countering ability could catch up later. The pick is a lean, not a strong bet.

Paul picks Hardy, noting that she was his first bet of the week. He highlights her takedown game and improved grappling since her return. He thinks Aldrich's takedown defense is inconsistent and that Hardy can exploit it. Paul also notes that Hardy's striking is competitive and that the threat of takedowns will slow Aldrich's volume. He is confident in Hardy.

The MMA Guru picks JJ Aldrich over Veronica Hardy, citing Aldrich's superior competition, size, reach, and aggression. He notes Hardy's recent wins came against lower-level opponents and that Aldrich is a career fighter with more to prove. He also mentions Aldrich's takedown defense and physicality in the clinch as key factors.