Max Griffin

Angelo leans on Max Griffin despite his age, citing Griffin's experience and toughness. He notes that Victor Valenzuela has not fought anyone good and was dropped three times in his last Apex fight. Angelo believes Griffin will fire back and potentially work in a takedown, though he admits uncertainty about Valenzuela's takedown defense. He rates his confidence at 51% for Griffin, calling it a 'nice little dog' but says he probably won't bet on it.

Connor picks Griffin because he believes Griffin hasn't fallen off and can out-slick Valenzuela. He notes that Griffin has a history of beating non-elite fighters and that Valenzuela is a one-note brawler. Connor also points out that Griffin can use movement, clinch, and takedowns to frustrate Valenzuela, similar to his game plan against Mike Perry.

James states he has not done tape on Valenzuela due to the fight being scheduled recently, so he cannot give a prediction.

Valenzuela is a powerful pocket striker with good finishing ability, catching Griffin at the right time as Griffin is on a two-fight losing streak and showing his age. Griffin may start fast but will slow down, allowing Valenzuela to walk him down and land big shots. Expect a knockout finish in round two or three.

Angelo picks Chris Curtis but expresses concern about his weight cut to welterweight at 37 years old, especially after a recent knockout. He thinks Curtis is the cleaner striker with good takedown defense, but worries about his chin durability after cutting weight. He notes that if the fight is actually at 185, he would be more confident and would bet on Curtis.

Big Brady likes Chris Curtis as the better striker with higher volume and power. He notes Curtis has elite takedown defense and the fight will stay standing. He mentions Curtis went toe-to-toe with Roman Kopylov. He picks Curtis by decision but warns the line is wide and judges could be an issue.

The host is high on Curtis moving down to 170 lbs, where he spent most of his career before the UFC. He thinks this will be a great matchup for Curtis to showcase his danger at welterweight and expects him to finish Griffin in the second or third round. The pick is based on Curtis's experience at the weight and his finishing ability.

Angelo picks Michael Chiesa as an underdog, believing Chiesa can use his grappling to neutralize Max Griffin's power. He notes Chiesa's improved fight IQ from coaching and analysis work. However, he acknowledges the fight is tricky and expects it to go the distance. He suggests possibly betting the spread (Chiesa +3.5) when props drop.

Cody picks Chiesa, citing his wrestling and submission threat. He notes Griffin's takedown defense issues and close decision losses. He thinks Chiesa can grind out a win, though he acknowledges Chiesa's inconsistency.

Connor picks Chiesa, arguing that Griffin lacks a defined game plan and often wanders out of fights. He notes that Chiesa is aggressive with his reach and clinch work, and that Griffin is not a submission threat, which is important because Chiesa has been submitted in most of his losses. Connor believes that if Chiesa pressures and forces clinches, Griffin will not have an answer.

Daniel picks Chiesa as an underdog, citing Griffin's recent decline and takedown defense issues. He believes Chiesa's grappling and strength will be decisive once he gets the fight to the mat. He notes Griffin's lack of submission threat.

This is a fight between two flaky fighters, but I lean with Griffin's activity as of late. His ability to keep the fight standing and out-strike Chiesa on the feet will allow him to win on the scorecards.

Paul picks Chiesa, emphasizing his wrestling advantage and Griffin's struggles with grapplers. He notes Griffin's age and lack of finishing ability. He thinks Chiesa can control the fight and win a decision or submission.

The MMA Guru picks Michael Chiesa, though he calls it tricky. He believes Chiesa's grappling will be the difference, as Griffin has historically struggled with grapplers (citing Colby Covington fight). He thinks Griffin lacks the dynamic striking to finish Chiesa early, and trusts Chiesa to grind out a 29-28 decision.

Angelo highlights Jeremiah Wells' well-rounded game, with explosive hands and high-level BJJ, and notes that Wells transitions effortlessly to grappling. He thinks Max Griffin's punches lose power later in fights, and that Wells will get takedowns and grind out a win. He acknowledges Griffin's toughness but believes Wells will be too much, though he will be biting his nails.

Big Brady picks Max Griffin as an underdog. He notes that Griffin is bigger, more experienced, has better technical striking and volume, and has good takedown defense. He acknowledges Wells' power and physicality but believes Griffin can win as long as he avoids a big shot.

Cody picks Griffin as a dog, noting Wells has fought low-level competition and has cardio issues. Griffin has fought better guys and has sneaky power, with knockdowns in recent fights. Cody thinks Wells will tire in later rounds, and Griffin's wrestling and durability will be key. He sees clear value on Griffin at plus money.

Wells is very dangerous early with power and top pressure. Griffin is 38 and has faltered against tougher opponents. Wells should be able to secure an early knockout or grind out a decision. The odds are a bit close, but Wells' power and tenacity should be the difference. Griffin's experience may not be enough to stay away from Wells' danger.

Paul also picks Griffin, echoing Cody's points. He notes Wells' opponents have a combined 0-7 record after fighting him, indicating he is being protected. Griffin is a step up in competition and has the skills to win. Paul thinks Griffin's power and experience will be too much for Wells.

Angelo picks Michael Morales, highlighting his credentials as a freestyle wrestling and Muay Thai national champion. He notes Morales's footwork, forward pressure, and clean takedowns. He believes Morales's offensive wrestling will be the difference, though Max Griffin is a live underdog. He mentions the moneyline is already juiced and will wait for props.

Big Brady picks Michael Morales to win by decision. He is high on Morales but cautions against the -240 line, noting Max Griffin is a tough veteran who has only been finished once. He thinks the fight will be close and could go to decision, where the UFC's preference for the undefeated prospect may favor Morales. He also notes Morales has multiple paths to win, including a finish or a close decision.

Cody likes Morales' youth, power, and wrestling background. He notes Morales' wins over Trevin Giles and Adam Fugit show finishing ability. He acknowledges Griffin is a seasoned veteran but points out Griffin's low volume and lack of recent finishes. Cody thinks Morales' power and pressure will be too much, but he will watch the live market in case Griffin teaches him a lesson.

Daniel leans Morales due to his athleticism, youth, and potential improvements after a year off, but calls it a 'dog or pass' at -240. He acknowledges Griffin's experience, durability, and knockdown power, and notes Morales' defensive flaws (gets hit clean). He compares the situation to Jamahal Hill's loss to Paul Craig, suggesting a setback wouldn't ruin Morales' future. He is not confident enough to bet, as Griffin's plus-205 price is tempting.

James briefly mentions this fight in response to a chat question, stating he sees Michael Morales knocking Max Griffin out. He does not elaborate further, but the statement is clear and confident.

Paul thinks the market is about right. He notes Griffin was taken down three times by Tim Means and that Morales can mix in wrestling. He sees Morales as a high-potential prospect and is not willing to bet against him against an aging Griffin. Paul believes Morales will win, possibly by using his wrestling.

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.

Angelo picks Neil Magny but calls it a razor thin fight that should be closer to a pick'em. He acknowledges Magny is more well-rounded but notes Max Griffin's 70% takedown defense and power in his hands pose real danger. He thinks the odds are too wide in Magny's favor.

Big Brady picks Neil Magny to win by decision. He cites Magny's advantages in height, reach, experience, and competition level. He notes that Griffin has been looking good but against lower-level opponents, and that Griffin doesn't wrestle enough to exploit Magny's takedown defense. Brady believes Magny will win wherever the fight goes.

Cody agrees with Magny, highlighting his cardio and grappling advantage. He thinks Magny can control the fight with takedowns and pressure. He notes Griffin's power but believes Magny's volume and wrestling will be decisive.

Daniel Levi picks Neil Magny, noting his length, volume, and underrated wrestling. He says Magny is a nightmare matchup for most and has a history of overperforming as an underdog. He respects Griffin's resurgence but thinks Magny's fight IQ and experience will edge him out. He would not lay -230 but would have taken Magny at under -190.

The host is very confident in Magny, praising his pressure, clinch work, and durability. He believes Magny will push Griffin backwards, beat him in the clinch and on the ground, and that Griffin cannot handle Magny's pace. He calls the line a gift and expects a dominant decision win.

Paul picks Magny, citing his cardio, durability, and wrestling. He thinks Magny can out-volume Griffin and take him down. He notes Griffin's lack of takedown defense against wrestlers. He sees Magny as a solid parlay piece.

Angelo picks Griffin despite rooting for Condit. He notes Condit is slowing down at 37, while Griffin is faster and stronger. He thinks Griffin's speed and power will overcome Condit's technical advantages. He has Griffin in his DraftKings lineup.

Big Brady picks Max Griffin to win by decision. He emphasizes that Griffin should use his wrestling, as Condit has been taken down in every fight where opponents attempted takedowns. He notes Griffin averages nearly two takedowns per 15 minutes with 51% accuracy. He thinks the striking will be close but the takedowns will be the difference. He mentions Condit's recent wins over Court McGee and Matt Brown but notes McGee didn't wrestle, which was a mistake.

Cody picks Griffin but prefers the submission prop at 20-1 on DraftKings. He notes Griffin's wrestling advantage and believes his best path is takedowns and submissions. He thinks Griffin can win by submission despite no UFC subs, citing Condit's vulnerability.

Daniel Levi picks Carlos Condit as a slight lean, acknowledging it's an illogical pick. He admits Condit is past his prime and that Griffin probably should win by decision using top control. However, he respects Condit's veteran savvy and believes he can do something sneaky to pull off an upset. He notes that Condit still has fight in him, as seen in the Oliveira fight where he almost got a submission. He is not confident in the pick.

Jacob picks Condit, citing his recent performances and value at 7500. He notes Condit has never been knocked out and has looked great against Matt Brown. He thinks Condit's experience and takedowns will be key. He compares Condit's potential run to Glover Teixeira's late-career surge.

I like Max Griffin here. Condit's takedown defense is terrible (35% defense), and Griffin has good pressure and takedowns. Condit hasn't submitted anyone in the UFC, and Griffin's cardio is good enough to grind out a decision. I expect Griffin to land takedowns and control the fight, winning by decision. The line might seem wide, but I trust Griffin to exploit Condit's weakness.

Paul picks Griffin by decision at +135. He notes Griffin's wrestling and volume striking, and Condit's durability. He thinks Griffin will use takedowns to secure rounds. He doesn't like the moneyline at -190.

Big Brady picks Max Griffin, emphasizing the clear path to victory via takedowns. He notes Griffin has a significant wrestling advantage, averaging 2 takedowns per 15 minutes with 53% accuracy, while Song has 45% takedown defense and offers little off his back. Brady expects Griffin to implement a wrestling game plan and win a comfortable decision, though he acknowledges Song's power makes him live.

Daniel Levi picks Song Kenan as an underdog, citing openings for a counter right hand. He acknowledges Griffin's toughness and durability but questions his striking defense and conditioning. He notes that Griffin has lost decisions to washed-up fighters and that the line at -200 is too high. He expects a close fight and likes the plus money.

Griffin has more paths to victory: volume striking, takedowns, and cardio. Song needs a KO to win, as he doesn't mix in grappling. Griffin's movement and ability to stay on the outside should allow him to outpoint Song. Griffin's durability is solid; he's only been dropped once in the UFC. Decision prop at +120 is appealing.

Big Brady picks Brahimaj despite cardio concerns, noting Brahimaj's strong wrestling and submission threat. He thinks Brahimaj wins the first round decisively but may fade later. He also mentions a potential submission, as Brahimaj has finished all his wins by submission.

Daniel Levi picks Ramiz Brahimaj to get the upset in his UFC debut. He notes that Brahimaj is a finisher with an explosive takedown style, and Max Griffin has been wobbled often and tends to gas out. Levi thinks Brahimaj can get an early finish on the mat, as Griffin is vulnerable and not showing improvement. However, he acknowledges the risk of Brahimaj gassing if he doesn't finish early.

The host leans toward Max Griffin due to experience and durability, but is not confident enough to bet. He notes Brahimaj's long layoff, cardio issues, and reliance on submissions, while Griffin has never been submitted in the UFC. He predicts a third-round TKO or decision, but says the line is not great.

Daniel picks Alex Oliveira to win by TKO in the first round, believing this is a step down in competition for Oliveira. He thinks Griffin is basic, slow, flat-footed, and gasses out, while Oliveira is a monster in the clinch and stand-up. He acknowledges Oliveira's susceptibility to submissions but doesn't think Griffin is capable of exploiting that.

Oliveira has better striking and power; he can hurt Griffin early and finish. However, if he blows his wad like against Mike Perry, Griffin's wrestling and cardio could take over. Griffin has shown ability to wrestle and grind. The host was considering betting Griffin but changed his mind after watching tape. He picks Oliveira by second-round TKO but is not confident enough to bet.