The UFC’s second card of the year is all set to go this Sunday, meaning you’ve only got a few days to lock in your bets. We’ve got a championship bout, a lightweight contender matchup, a heavyweight slugfest and a lightweight barnburner on the main card. We’ve been previewing each of these fights in depth this week, but just in case you missed anything, here’s a quick glimpse of the odds and predictions.
Please note, the odds listed here may have changed, as BookMaker updates on a daily basis. You can also view a full range of prop bets when you sign into your account.
UFC Fight Night 81 odds at BookMaker.eu
Dominick Cruz +130
T.J. Dillashaw -160
Over/under 4.5 rounds, over -170, under +150
Prediction: T.J. Dillashaw wins by TKO in Round 4
The question here is whether Dominick Cruz has retained his athleticism and skill after multiple major injuries let him fight just once in the past three years. For Dillashaw, there’s no doubt that he’s at the top of his game and has looked every bit as good as Cruz did as the former champion. Dillashaw is the safer play, although it could end up being a very close fight.
Expect a hyperactive bout, but in the end I expect Dillashaw to wear down Cruz, who probably could’ve used another fight or two before challenging for the title again.
UFC Fight Night 81 odds at BookMaker.eu
Anthony Pettis - 300
Eddie Alvarez +240
Over/under 2.5 rounds, over -130, under 2.5 +110
Prediction: Anthony Pettis wins by TKO in Round 2
Although Alvarez thrives in a firefight, Pettis is simply too fast and explosive for the Philadelphian. Showtime is just one fight removed from losing his title in a shocking upset to Rafael dos Anjos, but prior to that we were labelling him as a generational talent. Those skills are still there, and Alvarez’ willingness to trade gives Pettis a platform to showcase them.
I happen to love the under at +110, as Pettis was on a four-fight finishing streak before meeting Rafael dos Anjos.
UFC Fight Night 81 odds at BookMaker.eu
Matt Mitrione +140
Travis Browne -160
Over/under 1.5 rounds, over +125, under -145
Prediction: Matt Mitrione wins by TKO in Round 2
Matt Mitrione is one of the hardest punchers in the division, while Browne is one of its most diverse strikers. However, Browne’s move to Edmond Taverdyan’s camp has also coincided with a 1-2 record in his past three. I’m convinced that he’s not the type of coach you really evolve under. Browne has gotten tagged a lot in his recent fights, and against Mitrione that is not a good sign.
UFC Fight Night 81 odds at BookMaker.eu
Ross Pearson -150
Francisco Trinaldo +130
Over/under 2.5 rounds, over -195, under +165
Prediction: Ross Pearson wins by unanimous decision
The crafty Pearson meets the athletic Trinaldo in what should be an entertaining lightweight affair. While Trinaldo is blessed with better physical tools, Pearson is one of the most rugged vets in the game. Plus, the Brit is a superb counterstriker, which should be the doom of Trinaldo, who has become much more aggressive lately. In this case, I’ll take Pearson’s experience.
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 Fight Night 81 takes place on Sunday, January 17, 2016 at the TD Garden in Boston, MA. The main card and prelims will be televised on FOX Sports 1.
