The last time that Demian Maia fought for the title was 2010, when he met a prime Anderson Silva for the 185 pound strap and lost a lopsided a decision. Seven years later, Maia will fight for the welterweight strap as he meets kingpin Tyron Woodley in the co-main event of this Saturday’s UFC 214.
It’s been a long journey for the 39-year old Brazilian jiu-jitsu ace, but a happy ending might not be in the cards. Let’s take a look at the UFC odds at BookMaker.eu and break down your betting options.
Bet on UFC odds at BookMaker.eu
Tyron Woodley -200
Demian Maia +160
Over/under 2.5 rounds, over +110, under -140
Inside the Matchup
Maia is a throwback fighter - a guy who specializes in a single skill and imposes it on his opponents. He is undeniably one of the best grapplers in the sport’s history, and has only improved in his late 30s.
At an age where he many fighters begin breaking down, Maia has put together the most impressive run in an already distinguished career. He comes into the bout a winner of seven straight, and the ease with which he’s beaten excellent fighters like Gunnar Nelson, Neil Magny, Matt Brown and Carlos Condit in that time has been nothing short of stunning.
But his last fight against Jorge Masvidal showed exactly why Maia’s Cinderella run is likely to end. Maia struggled to take Masvidal down and was forced to eat a number of flush punches from a very good striker. Though he ended up controlling Masvidal on the mat for most of the fight, the Brazilian did very little damage and only managed a split decision win.
Masvidal is a former lightweight with a good sprawl. Woodley is a giant welterweight with an NCAA D1 wrestling background and takedown defense north of 90%. If T-Wood keeps this fight standing - and he most likely will - Maia will be forced to deal with a brutally strong and explosive striker.
Here’s how the fight will play out: Maia will run into the clinch and try to drag this fight to the ground. Woodley will break free and create space. T-Wood starts landing his low kick and winging his overhand right. Maia - who has never been comfortable on the feet - gets righteously busted up.
UFC Betting Tips
There are two solid plays here. The first is Woodley to win, for all the reasons listed above. The other is the under, as it’s a sneaky underdog play. Though Maia hasn’t been stopped since 2009, he’s dealing with a special athlete who will not want to test his cardio against a tireless grappler. Don’t be surprised if Woodley is more aggressive than usual on the feet and scores an early finish.
UFC odds pick: Under 2.5 rounds -140
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UFC 214 takes place on Saturday, July 29, 2017 at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California. The main card airs on pay-per-view starting 10 p.m. following the FXX prelims.
