It’s a shame that an elite striking matchup like Stephen Thompson vs. Jorge Masvidal is only three rounds. In Thompson, you have a bonafide kickboxing phenom - a man whose style would not look out of place on Tony Jaa movie set. As for “Gamebred”, the ATT ace is low-key one of the smoothest boxers in the division. 15 minutes is not enough time to see all the fan-friendly skills they bring to the cage.
Let’s take a look at the UFC odds at BookMaker.eu and break down a compelling matchup - along with the best betting options.
UFC odds at BookMaker.eu
Stephen Thompson -165
Jorge Masvidal +135
Over/under 2.5 rounds, over -230, under +190
Fight Preview
We have to assume this will play out as a kickboxing matchup. Both Masvidal and Thompson have takedown defense north of 76%, and neither are strong enough offensive wrestlers to really threaten the other.
The beauty of a standup war between these guys is that they are vastly different strikers. Thompson fights in a bouncy sidestance, influenced by his point karate background. This makes him a smaller target, as he is rarely fully squared up against his opponent, and he operates at a further distance than most fighters are accustomed to.
When it comes attacking, Thompson is exceptionally diverse and dynamic with his assaults. His kicks are both flashy and punishing, from a lightning quick side kick to the question mark kick that dazed Johny Hendricks. But his most dangerous weapon might be his left straight - which he throws with laser accuracy and power.
Masvidal’s jab is one of the best in the business - a quick, snapping punch that stops guys in their tracks. Against another former pro kickboxer in Cowboy Cerrone, Masvidal’s piston-like jab turned the tide in just a single round. If the 32-year old is landing it consistently, all sorts of opportunities open up for him, including his preferred left hook to the liver.
While his kicks aren’t as varied as Thompson’s, Masvidal is dangerous with his legs, throwing nice round kicks to the legs and body. But perhaps the most important thing for Masvidal is to stay aggressive - he’s been known to cruise, and it’s cost him winnable fights.
UFC Betting Tips
Early action has been on Thompson, as his money line has gotten more expensive over the past few weeks. Still, Masvidal’s price still isn’t favorable enough to draw a bet against a high-level kickboxer who will surely throw more significant strikes. If “Gamebred” had more fight-changing power, he’d be worth a small play, but at these odds Thompson is still the best play.
UFC Odds Pick: Thompson to win at -165
Bet on UFC odds at BookMaker.eu
Access live betting lines from your mobile device at BookMaker sportsbook! Real-time spreads, totals, props and money line are all available so start betting with BookMaker today.
UFC 217 takes place on Saturday, November 4, 2017 at Madison Square Garden in New York, New York. The main card airs live on pay-per-view starting 9 p.m.
