Connor Matthews

Angelo picks Yadier Del Valle but with hesitation, noting that the line feels wide at more than 4:1 favorite. He acknowledges that Connor Matthews is not top-tier but not garbage either. He points out that Matthews has a chin issue and that Del Valle doesn't have knockout power, so Matthews could get an early takedown. Angelo advises against betting on this fight.

Big Brady picks Yadier Del Valle, calling Connor Matthews a 'punching bag' who has been beaten down in the UFC. He notes Del Valle is well-rounded with solid grappling and volume. He predicts Del Valle will finish Matthews by knockout in the second round.

The host thinks both fighters have questions, but Del Valle seems better than what Matthews brings. He expects Del Valle to use his physicality, forward pressure, and grinding ability to wear out Matthews and win on the scorecards. The pick is confident but not a lock.

Angelo picks Jose Delgado, noting that Delgado is well-rounded with good power, control, and grappling. He thinks Delgado is slightly better than Connor Matthews, except maybe cardio. He expects Delgado to be the favorite and would bet him if he's an underdog. He notes that Matthews is 'just okay' while Delgado is 'okay plus five.'

Big Brady picks Delgado by second-round knockout, calling Matthews a walking punching bag who is not UFC caliber. Delgado is much more skilled and aggressive, though defensively irresponsible. Matthews may be tough but will take a beating; the fight could be hard to watch.

Connor picks Jose Delgado, agreeing with Zane that Matthews has no defensive instincts and a weak chin. He compares Matthews to Phil Hawes but with less technique and athleticism. Connor notes that Delgado is a violent fighter who will exploit Matthews' vulnerabilities, and that Matthews' only path to victory would be a lucky shot, which is unlikely given his lack of power and defense. He also criticizes the matchmaking, suggesting Matthews should not be in the UFC.

Delgado is the superior striker and overall mixed martial artist. Matthews' physicality and power will not translate. Delgado touches him up from distance even off his back foot and wins on the scorecards.

The MMA Guru picks Jose Delgado over Connor Matthews, trusting in Delgado's gym (MMA Lab) and its history of producing good fighters. He notes Matthews' loss to Dennis Buzukja and believes Delgado will be more well-rounded and cleaner on the feet, predicting a decision win.

Angelo leans Dennis Buzukja, praising his wrestling and striking. He notes Connor Matthews is durable and can snatch submissions in scrambles. He is hesitant because Buzukja has back-to-back UFC losses and hasn't proven himself yet. He holds off on betting.

Cody picks Matthews due to Buzukja's low confidence, poor recent performances, and lack of power. He thinks Matthews' wrestling and volume will be enough, though he acknowledges the fight is close and the crowd could influence judges.

Daniel Vreeland picks Connor Matthews, citing his better output and stats in the UFC. He notes Buzukja has low output and hasn't impressed, while Matthews has shown more volume and takedowns. He admits low confidence but thinks the dog has value.

Buzukja is more talented all-around with better experience. Matthews is physical but has a questionable gas tank and struggles if takedowns are stuffed. Buzukja can counter effectively and mix in wrestling to wear on Matthews. The minus 125-130 line is reasonable. Prediction: Buzukja by decision.

Paul tails Cody, citing Buzukja's struggles and Matthews' hunger. He notes Matthews' takedown numbers and believes he can outwork Buzukja, though he admits the fight is a toss-up.