Canadian striker Patrick Cote – 21-9, 8 KOs, 3 SUBs – will square off against Josh Burkman – 27-11, 7 KOs, 10 SUBs – in a matchup between veterans who’ve fought their way back into the UFC after being cut from the promotion.
With the card taking place in Saskatchewan, Cote figures to be the hometown favorite against “The People’s Warrior.” The matchup is scheduled for the FOX Sports 1 main card starting 9 p.m. ET.
CURRENT ODDS
Check our online UFC odds for the latest money lines, where Burkman is a slight favorite at -130. The veteran Cote’s money line currently sits at +110. The total on this three-rounder is 2.5 odds, with the over at -135 and the under at +115. These odds sound about right, although I’d expect Burkman to get even more expensive at the fight draws near.
VETTING THE VETS
Cote is best known for his failed title challenge against Anderson Silva in 2008. He was cut from the UFC in 2010, but won four straight in regional competition to earn his ticket back to the octagon. Since reappearing in 2012, Cote is a respectable 4-2, with solid wins over mid-level competition like Bobby Voelker and Joe Riggs.
Burkman has yet to taste victory in two fights since rejoining the UFC. To be fair, his first fight back came against a monster in Hector Lombard and his most recent loss was to a legit top-15 fighter in Dong Hyun Kim. Cut from the promotion in 2009, Burkman embarked on a five-year journey in a number of smaller promotions, compiling an 8-1 record with notable victories over other former UFCers like Jamie Yager, Gerald Harris and Aaron Simpson.
Although Cote and Burkman sit comfortably outside the division’s top-15, the two vets are capable of high-level performances even as they enter their mid-30s. This is a good opportunity for the winner to establish a role as a divisional gatekeeper – something that should not be taken as an insult.
FIGHT ANALYSIS AND PREDICTION
Burkman stands out as the more well-rounded fighter, boasting a savvy submission game with solid standup. Cote has always been a good kickboxer, although his physical tools have noticeably declined over the last five years. The Canadian’s best bet is to keep this fight standing, but even if that happens it won’t be a sure thing for Cote.
I see Burkman coming into the fight fired up – Cote represents a step down from his first two opponents since his UFC return. The People’s Warriors has more paths to victory, and should be able to take a unanimous decision.
HOW TO BET
Sign in to get the latest Cote vs. Burkman odds. BookMaker offers daily updates to money lines, total, prop bets and more, so make sure to lock in your bets should you find a favorable wager. Their bout takes place at UFC Fight Night 74 on August 23, 2015 at the Sasktel Centre in Sakatoon, Canada. FOX Sports 1 will televise the main card starting 9 p.m., with the prelims starting at 7 p.m. ET.
Don’t forget to check in during fight night to get live odds. During each fight, BookMaker updates their odds in real-time, so you can keep betting as each fight unfolds on live television. It’s a great way to hedge your bets should you fall behind. With our mobile platform, it’s never been easier to bet on UFC events.
