The main event of the biggest card in UFC history features the man many consider to be the MMA GOAT, Jon Jones, and his arch nemesis, Daniel Cormier. Jones will attempt to win back the undisputed light heavyweight belt that was stripped from him and captured by DC. There are a ton of betting options to consider, so let’s get right to it.
Bet on UFC odds at BookMaker.eu
Please note, the odds at BookMaker are updated on a daily basis. The lines listed here are subject to change.
MONEY LINES
Daniel Cormier +260
Jon Jones -315
ANALYSIS
Over the past few weeks, Cormier’s line has shifted 15 points higher from +245 to +260, indicating most gamblers are picking Jones, who has held steady at -315. Despite a somewhat disappointing appearance from Jones against Ovince St. Preux, oddsmakers obviously still feel he has more than enough to beat DC.
OVER/UNDER
4.5 rounds, over -155, under +125
ANALYSIS
In their first encounter, Jones and Cormier went the distance. The over/under in that bout was set at 4.5 rounds, with the over at -115. Although Jones started pull away in the championship rounds, at no point did he threaten to finish the AKA product. This time around, the over is even more expensive, although it’s not a heavy chalk by any means.
BETTING THE MONEY LINE
Jones still holds advantages in every area, both physically and skillswise. At 28 years old, he’s still in his prime, and is a natural athlete with great balance, flexibility and reflexes. But what makes him most dangerous is his 6’4” frame and 84” reach. Jones has faced the best that the 205-pound division has to offer for the past five years, and nobody’s come close to solving the puzzle that is Jones’ range.
That list of victims includes Cormier. While he was able to close the distance and steal a round in their first scrap, the problem was sustaining that game plan for five rounds. DC simply took too much damage trying to get in range and paid for it later on. Just as important, his vaunted wrestling was completely neutralized by Jones.
There is nothing to suggest the outcome will be any different this time around. Jones is not coming off injury nor diminished physically at all. At -315, Jones is somewhat expensive but an easy pick.
BETTING THE OVER/UNDER
If Jones couldn’t finish a clearly outclassed OSP, it’s hard to see him finishing Cormier. Bones’ last four fights have gone to decision, and that trend should continue here. Cormier has never been stopped before and proved that he could take a beating against Alexander Gustafsson. At -155, the over is a fantastic value.
THE SMART PLAY
You’ll want to pick the over, as it represents your best chance to maximize a payout. Jones has been vocal about wanting to stop Cormier, but that’s far easier said than done. Once the fight starts, I’m expecting a focused, calculated Jones.
UFC ODDS: Jon Jones UD Daniel Cormier
HOW TO BET
Access live betting lines at BookMaker Sportsbook and start wagering now. With our live betting options, you can also wager on sporting events as they unfold on television with BookMaker’s live betting platform. UFC 197 takes place on Saturday, April 23, 2016 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. The main card will be televised on pay-per-view.
