UFC 211 is going to be a good one. Not one, but two titles will be on the line down in Dallas, Texas, including the UFC heavyweight strap. With the big event mere hours away, let’s get one last rundown of all the odds for the four main card fights, as well as picks and predictions for each.
Dos Santos outclassed Miocic in their first meeting almost three years ago, but both have changed significantly since. Miocic has grown into the cream of the crop in the division, winning his last four fights via knockout. Meanwhile, Dos Santos has been relatively inactive, and hasn’t really shown much of the form that once made him champion.
Dos Santos’ heavy hands are always a threat to end the fight with a single punch, and the UFC’s heavyweight division is as volatile as they come. But Miocic is the better-rounded fighter, and should be more prepared for this matchup with “Cigano” after learning from his mistakes in the first fight.
Prediction: Miocic (-145) retains his title with a third round TKO.
UFC Women’s Strawweight Championship:
Joanna Jedrzejczyk vs. Jessica Andrade
Jedrzejczyk has seemed a lot more mortal in his last couple of title defenses, which is probably why her odds for this matchup with Andrade are the highest they’ve ever been. Andrade will most likely look to bring the champion down, and it could mean a long night for Jedrzejczyk if the Brazilian is successful.
Joanna Champion is still going to be tough to beat, though. She’ll get her shots in on the feet, and may just eke out a decision if it goes the distance.
Prediction: Jedrzejczyk (-190) retains her title with a hard-fought decision win.
The public has quickly jumped on Masvidal, who went from a +135 underdog to a -130 favorite. “Gamebred” has terrific striking, but more importantly, the ability to stay upright against an expert BJJ practitioner like Maia.
However, Maia has proven over the course of his six-fight win streak that he can keep even seasoned BJJ practitioners down and simply outclass them on the mat. Three of his last four wins have come via submission, and Gamebred figures to be his next victim.
Prediction: Maia (EVEN) bumps his win streak up to seven fights with another submission win over Masvidal.
Rodriguez has an impressive six-fight win streak going to start his UFC career, but he’s set to make a major jump in competition when he goes from facing the husk of BJ Penn to Frankie “The Answer” Edgar.
Edgar may be 35, but he hasn’t shown too many signs of slowing down. He figures to be a difficult matchup for Rodriguez due to his good movement and his takedown abilities. Unless Rodriguez performs to the level of a Jose Aldo – the only fighter Edgar has lost to in three years – then Edgar is likely set for another win.
Prediction: Edgar (-130) puts the young Rodriguez in his place as “The Answer” scores a unanimous decision win.
