Irwin Rivera

Big Brady picks Andre Ewell, noting his seven-inch reach advantage and improving takedown defense. He believes Rivera is tough but doesn't take opponents down enough to beat Ewell, and the fight will likely stay standing where Ewell throws more output. He already bet Ewell at -185 and expects a three-round decision.

The host favors Andre Ewell due to his significant reach advantage (7 inches) and superior striking speed and defense. He notes that Irwin Rivera struggles against longer strikers, as seen in his fight with Giga Chikadze, and that Ewell's quickness and ability to pivot off the cage will neutralize Rivera's pressure. He predicts a third-round TKO or decision, but leans toward a finish given Rivera's tendency to duck into shots.

Big Brady picks AlQaisi as an underdog, believing his wrestling and takedowns will be the difference. He notes Rivera's poor takedown defense and lack of offense off his back. He predicts a decision win for AlQaisi.

Daniel Levi picks Irwin Rivera to win by decision. He notes that Rivera is the better striker with dynamic ability, including a liver kick and flying knees, and that AlQaisi is stiff on the feet. Levi acknowledges that AlQaisi has a path to victory with wrestling and guillotine attempts, but believes Rivera's takedown defense and scrambling have improved. He also mentions that Rivera trains with the Burns brothers in Florida.

Rivera trains at Sanford MMA with high-level partners and has fought legitimate competition, while AlQaisi is a UFC debutant with questionable opposition. Rivera's takedown defense improved after the first round against Sabatello, and he should be able to avoid submissions. The under 2.5 rounds at +160 is appealing due to both fighters' finishing rates.

Big Brady does not give an official prediction for this fight because he has not watched film on Irwin Rivera. He notes that Chikadze has a significant height and reach advantage and likes what he has seen from Chikadze's striking, but cannot make a pick without more information. He says to check back tomorrow for a betting breakdown.

Daniel Levi picks Giga Chikadze via first-round knockout. He believes Chikadze will land his signature liver kick and finish Rivera. He notes that Rivera is taking the fight on short notice and will be outsized. He thinks Chikadze's dynamic kickboxing will be too much for Rivera.