Alberto Montes

Big Brady picks Alberto Montes over Ricky Turcios. He finds Turcios frustrating to pick, noting his low output and poor striking accuracy. Montes is a front choke specialist with power and submission threats. Brady sees Montes winning by decision or potentially hurting Turcios, who has been getting hurt more often. He trusts Montes to be more active and land bigger shots.

Cody picks Turcios, citing his better wrestling, striking, and experience. He notes Montes is a one-trick pony with the darce choke, and Turcios is hard to submit. He expects Turcios to win a decision, possibly a split.

Connor picks Turcios hesitantly, reasoning that Montes' game is dysfunctional enough that Turcios' chaotic style can compete. He notes that Turcios is tireless and has only been submitted once, while Montes has poor striking defense and may gas out under pressure. However, he acknowledges that Turcios is the smaller, weaker man moving up in weight.

Daniel Vreeland confidently picks Alberto Montes in his UFC debut, praising his disciplined striking and submission ability. He criticizes Ricky Turcios for not evolving and being figured out, and believes Montes will outpoint him without being affected by Turcios's antics.

The host is interested in Turcios as an underdog (+158) but is not confident enough to bet. He notes Montes is more technical everywhere but has little experience and many quick finishes. Turcios is tough, high-paced, and can drag opponents into wars, which could trouble a debutant. However, the host caps Turcios at around 50% and wants a bigger margin; the current odds imply 39%, which is not enough for him. He will wait for weigh-ins.

James picks Alberto Montes, noting that Ricky Turcios lacks power, submission threat, and volume, making it hard for him to win UFC fights. He believes Montes is a better striker with more power and has a dangerous anaconda choke that could submit Turcios. James is not confident but sees Montes as the side with more paths to victory.

Turcios is awkward and scrambly, making it hard for Montes to secure his front choke. Turcios has better striking output and accuracy against a less confident striker. He should survive grappling exchanges and win a decision as an underdog.

Paul agrees with Cody, picking Turcios. He notes Montes' limited offense and Turcios' scrambling ability. He expects Turcios to outwork Montes and win a decision.

The MMA Guru picks Alberto Montes, but hesitantly. He thinks Montes can secure a submission (Anaconda choke) when Turcios shoots for takedowns. He notes Turcios has been skittish since TUF and that Montes, though sloppy, should win.