The UFC is back inside the APEX to host this event. This card is filled with unknowns so tread lightly. Follow me on Twitter @CombatSportsNBC for my tracked bets. Feel free to DM me if you want my picks for any fight on the card and my thoughts on any other props or parlays you’re interested in playing.
*** Fight: Caio Borralho vs Armen Petrosyan
*** Fight: Jared Vanderaa vs Chase Sherman
** Parlay: Borralho ML & Vanderaa ML (+110) on PointsBet
Analysis: Borralho and Petrosyan are both solid strikers. Borralho sets himself apart in this matchup with his grappling. He should work his wrestling game to threaten Petrosyan on the ground with his superior jiu-jitsu. Borralho is in line for a submission or decision win.
Jared Vanderaa and Chase Sherman are both willing to strike it out on the feet. Jared Vanderaa has a clear path to victory by securing a takedown and keeping Chase Sherman on his back. Chase Sherman also has one round of cardio. Vanderaa can secure a takedown in rounds two or three and ride out those rounds from top control. Vanderaa is also live for a submission.
*** Fight: Ricky Turcios vs Aiemann Zahabi
*** Fight: Said Nurmagomedov vs D Silva de Andrade
** Parlay: Numagomedov ML & Turcios ML (-106) on PointsBet
Analysis: Ricky Turcios embodies the term mixed martial arts fighter. Turcios is in perpetual motion and moves forward. Turcios will take the fight to Zahabi and win minutes in this fight. Zahabi will allow Turcios to dictate where this fight goes which is why Turcios should outpoint Zahabi for the win.
Said Nurmagomedov is the superior striker in this matchup. Andrade wants to dig his feet in and throw heavy strikes. Nurmagomedov will use his movement to avoid the brawl. Nurmagomedov keeps his opponents off balance with movement and spinning attacks. He is capable of a flash knocked with a spinning back fist but a decision win is most likely.
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*** Fight: Rafael Fiziev vs Rafael dos Anjos
** Prop Play: Rafael Fiziev/Over 2.5 Rounds (+100) on PointsBet
Analysis: Rafael Fiziev is a pressure striker. He makes striking look effortless in the octagon. He is fast and powerful with his varied attacks. He will switch stances to throw punches from different angles and various kicks. Rafael dos Anjos is an excellent striker but there will be a speed advantage here. Fiziev will run away with a decision unless dos Anjos can slow this fight down with grappling and mix in a few takedowns. Fiziev wants to keep this fight standing so he can cruise to a striking-based decision.
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