Youssef Zalal

Angelo leans on Aljamain Sterling, citing his five-round experience and wrestling edge. He acknowledges that Youssef Zalal is the better striker but believes Sterling's wrestling will be superior, referencing Sterling's performance against Movsar Evloev. He notes that Sterling opened as a favorite but is now an underdog, and he encourages rewatching the Evloev fight to see Sterling's scrambling ability.

Big Brady picks Youssef Zalal over Aljamain Sterling. He notes Zalal's recent improvements and finishing ability, and believes Zalal's cardio and pace will be advantages in a five-round fight. He thinks Sterling may slow down as the fight progresses, and predicts Zalal wins by decision.

The host leans Zalal due to his output, aggression, pace, and volume, plus Sterling's decline and lack of power. However, he admits it's impossible to form a strong opinion because Zalal hasn't faced a wrestler like Sterling in years. He calls the odds fair coin-flip territory and passes on betting.

James picks Youssef Zalal based on stylistic matchup, believing Zalal's footwork and striking will cause problems for Sterling. He notes Zalal's recent improvements and age advantage, and predicts a finish inside the distance as Sterling gets desperate with takedowns.

Angelo picks Youssef Zalal, citing his ability to be an outside distance striker or a full-blown grappler. He notes Zalal's high fight IQ and low strikes absorbed per minute. He acknowledges Josh Emmett's power and experience but thinks Zalal's versatility and youth will be key. He is surprised Zalal is almost a 4-to-1 favorite and would set the line at -170.

Big Brady sees this as an easy win for Zalal, who is in his prime at 29, while Emmett is 40 and fighting at featherweight. He believes Zalal can use his speed and footwork to avoid Emmett's power and mix in takedowns. He predicts Zalal by decision.

Connor picks Zalal, agreeing that Zalal's movement and ability to fight at range will give Emmett problems. He notes that Emmett's only major improvement was learning to throw punches at two speeds, but he still lacks dexterity and cage-cutting skills. Connor also mentions that Zalal's performance against Calvin Katter showed he can neutralize opponents, though he cautions that Emmett's power is a constant threat.

Zalal's style is expected to be too difficult for Emmett to track. Emmett may land some big shots, but Zalal should flow with them and get off his own offense, winning a boring decision.

The MMA Guru picks Youssef Zalal, believing his counter-striking and movement will frustrate Josh Emmett. He notes Emmett's predictable overhands and lack of grappling. He predicts a late TKO via knee up the middle.

Angelo is extremely confident in Youssef Zalal, calling him his 'most confident pick on this card.' He highlights Zalal's momentum, improved wrestling and submissions, and Calvin Kattar's inability to defend takedowns. He also notes that Kattar's team (New England Cartel) has not proven they can stop takedowns, so he fades them against any wrestler.

Big Brady picks Zalal by second-round submission, citing Zalal's recent finishing streak and improved aggression. Kattar is 36, on a losing streak, and had a terrible performance against Aljamain Sterling. Zalal has a grappling path and can also win on the feet with movement. He expects Zalal to take down Kattar and submit him.

Connor picks Youssef Zalal, emphasizing Zalal's newfound confidence and flexibility. He notes that Zalal has turned a corner, becoming a more dynamic fighter who can create and take advantage of openings. Connor compares Zalal's development to a sumo wrestler who has found his center, and believes Zalal's adaptability marks him as a potential elite fighter. He acknowledges Kattar's durability and slow-start style but thinks Zalal's improved wrestling and ability to recover from difficulty will be key.

Lucrative James is confident Youssef Zalal will win and cover the -400 price tag. He believes Zalal is the better striker, kickboxer, grappler, and wrestler everywhere except pure boxing, where Kattar has an edge. He highlights Zalal's elite footwork and defensive skills, noting that even Ilia Topuria struggled to land clean on him. He expects Zalal to outclass Kattar on the outside with jabs and leg kicks, and predicts a 30-27 decision. He dismisses the idea of betting Kattar as a value underdog, stating the narrative that Kattar is washed is correct.

Zalal is the better fighter with momentum. He will remain competitive on the feet and then get the fight to the ground, showcasing his aggressive submission approach. He is more aggressive than Sterling, who couldn't finish Kattar, and will find a submission.

The MMA Guru picks Youssef Zalal over Calvin Kattar, citing Zalal's ability to mix it up with wrestling, low kicks, and boxing. He notes Kattar's recent losses, injuries, and susceptibility to leg kicks. He believes Zalal will chew up Kattar's legs, grapple, and win a decision, possibly with a 10-8 round.

Angelo sees Youssef Zalal as the better wrestler, grappler, and more technical striker in this matchup. He notes Zalal's 2.0 version since returning to the UFC has been a buzzsaw, with improved wrestling and ground control. He mentions Zalal's low striking absorption rate (1.73 per minute) and high fight IQ. He also highlights Zalal's recent submission win over Jarno Errens. Angelo is confident Zalal will win and considers the -225 price affordable.

Big Brady picks Youssef Zalal to win by decision. He notes that Zalal has looked much more aggressive in his second UFC stint, finishing opponents, while Jack Shore is moving up to featherweight and will be undersized. Brady believes Zalal is the better striker and can compete in grappling, stuffing takedowns and possibly getting his own. He expects a close fight but thinks Zalal does enough over 15 minutes.

Cody picks Youssef Zalal, citing his improved grappling and striking since his return to the UFC. He notes that Zalal is younger, faster, and more well-rounded than Shore, who he sees as undersized and struggling against physical opponents. He believes Zalal's movement and takedown ability will be too much for Shore, and expects a dominant performance.

Daniel Vreeland picks Youssef Zalal, citing his resurgence and improved skills since returning to the UFC. He believes Zalal's movement, footwork, and ability to mix in takedowns will be too much for Jack Shore, who is stuck between weight classes. Vreeland notes that Zalal has looked impressive against solid competition and is on a trajectory to face ranked opponents, while Shore is underwhelming and in the wrong division.

Shore is dealing with recency bias as a big underdog, but his relentless wrestling style can still prove fruitful, especially since Zalal doesn't present the athletic and physical dangers that Shore's recent opponents have, allowing Shore to grind out a win and spoil Zalal's winning streak.

Paul agrees, noting that Zalal has looked impressive in his second UFC stint and has a well-rounded skill set. He points out that Shore struggles against physically stronger opponents and that Zalal's speed and technique will give him problems. He believes Zalal is the rightful favorite and should win comfortably.

Angelo is very confident in Zalal because of his high fight IQ, incredible defense (only 1.73 significant strikes absorbed per minute), and well-rounded skills. He notes that Errens overcommits and extends while chasing power, which sets him up to be taken down. Zalal is one of Angelo's most confident picks on the card.

Cody is high on Zalal, citing his improved grappling, slick Jiu-Jitsu, and dominant win over Billy Quarantillo. He notes Errens has poor takedown defense (26%) and is one-dimensional. Cody expects Zalal to submit Errens and took Zalal by submission at plus 310.

Zalal has a solid all-around game with good striking, leg kicks, and aggressive grappling, plus high-level cardio training at elevation. Errens has shown flaws in takedown defense and has been out-grinded by strikers. Zalal should mix in takedowns to separate himself and win on the scorecards, though Errens is tough to finish.

Paul agrees, calling Zalal a potential top-five guy. He notes Errens' takedown defense is a massive flaw and Zalal should dominate. Paul took Zalal by submission as well, believing Zalal will take the smart route and not risk striking.

Angelo is very confident in Billy Quarantillo, placing a full unit bet on him at -146. He believes Quarantillo's constant forward pressure and high output will overwhelm Zalal, who prefers to point fight from the outside. He expects the line to rebound to -300 and advises jumping on the current value.

Big Brady picks Billy Quarantillo, citing his high volume (almost 8 strikes per minute) compared to Zalal's low volume (2.75). He notes Zalal is durable and has good cardio but will be outworked. He thinks Quarantillo will drown Zalal with activity and win a decision.

Cody picks Quarantillo, citing his volume, durability, and ability to push a pace. He thinks Zalal's wrestling could be neutralized by Quarantillo's scrambling and constant forward pressure. Cody notes that Zalal is returning after a layoff and may not be ready for Quarantillo's relentless style.

Daniel Vreeland leans toward Youssef Zalal, believing he can pick Quarantillo apart with his striking and avoid getting drawn into a brawl. He notes Zalal has never had cardio issues and has won rounds against top competition. He thinks Zalal's maturity and composure will be key, but he would have liked better odds.

Zalal is the better striker with good combinations and cardio. He should be able to outwork Quarantillo on the feet and avoid takedowns. Quarantillo is a slow starter who relies on pressure and grappling, but his takedown success rate is low. Zalal's improved aggression could be key, but there is concern about Quarantillo's clinch and submission threats. Zalal by decision is the pick.

Paul agrees with Cody, emphasizing Quarantillo's volume and the value at minus 140. He believes Zalal's path to victory via takedowns is difficult because Quarantillo fights to get back up and throws volume. Paul sees Quarantillo as the clear play.

Angelo picks Da'Mon Blackshear despite it being short notice, citing his athleticism, speed, and power. He notes that Zalal is tough to finish and has great defense, but believes Blackshear can win if his conditioning holds up and he can defend takedowns. However, Angelo is not betting on this fight due to the short notice uncertainty.

Big Brady leans toward Youssef Zalal to win by decision. He notes that Zalal has had a year off and is dropping to bantamweight, which could be beneficial. Zalal impressed in his last fight against Sean Woodson, showing good striking and wrestling. Blackshear is tough with good grappling, but Brady thinks Zalal is a little better overall and should win a decision.

Cody picks Blackshear as an underdog, citing Zalal's low output and reliance on wrestling. He notes Blackshear is physically strong, has excellent cardio, and has submitted several prospects. Cody thinks Blackshear will stuff takedowns and break Zalal down.

Daniel Levi leans Youssef Zalal, citing his experience inside the UFC and his back being against the wall. He notes that Zalal has paid his dues and has a solid grappling game. However, he acknowledges Blackshear's athleticism and unorthodox style, and that Blackshear could make big leaps. Levi predicts a split decision for Zalal.

The host includes Blackshear in his totals parlay, betting over 2.5 rounds. He notes that Blackshear has never been finished in his professional MMA career, so he expects the fight to go the distance or at least past 2.5 rounds.

Paul leans toward Zalal, noting his youth and experience. He is interested in live betting to see if Zalal can get takedowns early. Paul is hesitant because Zalal has struggled against stronger grapplers, but he thinks Zalal's game plan could be to win rounds.

Big Brady thinks the line is off and the fight should be a pick'em. He notes Woodson has a big reach advantage but Zalal has a strong ground game, averaging 2.5 takedowns per 15 minutes. He points out Woodson's takedown defense is inflated by facing poor wrestlers, and that Terence McKinney had success controlling Woodson on the mat. He believes if Zalal mixes in takedowns he can win a decision, as Zalal is not a finisher.

Cody picks Woodson, noting his size and reach. He thinks Zalal's takedowns won't be effective and that Woodson will outpoint him. Cody likes Woodson by decision as a prop.

Daniel picks Woodson, believing he has cleaner hands and more output. He notes that Woodson's length (6'2", 79" reach) will be a problem for Zalal, and that Zalal is a jack-of-all-trades without a standout skill. Daniel acknowledges Zalal's smarts and calf kicks, but thinks Woodson will pick him apart on the feet and avoid takedowns. He expects Woodson to win a decision, possibly a split, but is confident in his striking advantage.

Woodson has superior boxing and range, and he gets up quickly if taken down. Zalal's takedowns won't keep him down, and Woodson will out-strike him for a decision win.

Paul picks Woodson, citing his reach and boxing advantage. He notes Zalal's low output and reliance on takedowns, which Woodson can defend. Paul thinks Woodson will win a decision. He likes Woodson by decision as a prop.

Big Brady picks the underdog SeungWoo Choi, disagreeing with the line that has Zalal as a heavy favorite. He notes that Zalal may struggle to take Choi down, and if the fight stays standing, Choi's striking is very impressive. He also mentions that Zalal is coming in on short notice, which adds to his uncertainty. He is not overly confident but likes the value at plus money.

Daniel Levi picks SeungWoo Choi as a dog-or-pass, viewing it as a close fight. He notes Choi's takedown defense (stuffed 11 vs Evloev, 8 vs Tucker) and believes his physical attributes and kickboxing make him live. He thinks the line moved too far in Zalal's favor and sees value on Choi.

Zalal is a well-rounded fighter with good cardio and a solid ground game. He should be able to mix in takedowns and grind out a decision. Choi has a tough run in the UFC and tends to fade as fights go on. Zalal's pace and pressure will be too much. I expect Zalal to win by decision, using his wrestling and volume striking.

Big Brady picks the underdog Topuria, citing his dangerous finishing ability (88% by knockout, 12% by submission) and takedown threat. He worries about Topuria's cardio but believes he can finish early. He notes Zalal has never been finished but thinks there's a first time. He admits he's a Zalal fan but goes against him here.

Daniel picks Ilia Topuria as an underdog, believing he has value. He notes that Zalal has not faced a real takedown threat since his regional losses, while Topuria is a strong wrestler with finishing ability. Daniel acknowledges Zalal's good footwork and calf kicks but thinks Topuria's grappling and power will be the difference. He also mentions that Topuria has overcome adversity, getting dropped and coming back to win.

Topuria's high-level grappling and black belt jiu-jitsu will be the difference; Zalal has shown poor takedown defense and has been controlled on the ground. Topuria's cardio is a question, but he should secure a submission in the first or second round. Zalal's striking advantage is nullified by Topuria's relentless pressure.

Big Brady picks Zalal confidently, citing advantages everywhere: striking, grappling, and age. He notes Barrett's poor submission defense and tendency to get into bad positions. He predicts a first-round submission for Zalal.

Daniel Levi picks Youssef Zalal to win by decision. He notes that Zalal is more well-rounded and has him outgunned anywhere the fight takes place. Levi believes Barrett's only chance is to turn it into a brawl, but if Zalal fights patiently and mixes his strikes with takedowns, he should win easily. He also mentions that Barrett takes a lot of damage in his fights.

Zalal has better jiu-jitsu, more aggression, and a point-fighting style that should outwork Barrett. He does well getting out of bad positions and has cardio advantage. Barrett's safe approach may prevent a finish, so Zalal likely wins by decision. The line at -325 is a bit wide, so a parlay is suggested over a straight bet.

Big Brady picks Youssef Zalal by decision, citing his good BJJ, top control, and smart fight IQ. He thinks Zalal can keep the fight on the feet or control on top, and that Griffin is dangerous but often loses until he gets a submission. He is confident Zalal can avoid submissions and win a comfortable decision. He notes that if Zalal goes to underdog, he'd bet him.

Daniel Levi picks Jordan Griffin, citing his experience and ability to capitalize on Zalal's defensive flaws. He notes that Zalal fights with his hands down and Griffin's pressure could exploit that. Levi acknowledges Zalal's footwork and well-rounded skills but thinks Griffin's veteran savvy and submission threat will be key. He expects a close decision, possibly a back-and-forth fight, but leans Griffin due to his experience edge.

Daniel Levi picks Austin Lingo to knock out Youssef Zalal. He highlights Lingo's knockout power and consistent pressure from Fortis, while noting Zalal's tendency to be bullied by physical fighters. He believes Lingo will go forward and land heavy shots, possibly finishing the fight.