If Yair “Pantera” Rodriguez’ (8-1, 2 KOs, 2 SUBs) early fights are any indication, the TUF: Latin America winner could be a pivotal figure in the UFC’s attempts to capture the lucrative Mexican market. Already 4-0 inside the octagon, Rodriguez will look to extend his streak against the charismatic Alex Caceres (12-8, 2 KOs, 5 SUBs) in the main event of this Saturday’s UFC Fight Night 92.
Bet on UFC odds at BookMaker.eu
Alex Caceres +200
Yair Rodriguez -280
Over/under 2.5 rounds, over -135, under -105
Please note, the UFC odds at BookMaker are updated daily.
ODDS ANALYSIS
Rodriguez is nearly a 3-1 favorite with a -280 money line, meaning it would take $280 to win $100. On the other hand, Caceres’ +200 odds means a winning $100 bet on Caceres would pay out $200. There’s no surprise with these odds, as Caceres has been an inconsistent fighter and Rodriguez is generally considered one of the division’s brightest prospects.
FIGHT PREVIEW
Though young in his pro career, Rodriguez has shown especially bright talent in the striking department, particularly when it comes to his kicking game. His willingness to throw flashy, risky legs make him an exciting fighter to watch, although that style leads him open to takedowns at times. His speed and quickness allows him to maintain the distance needed to operate, though his footwork could improve.
For all his striking talent, where Rodriguez truly shines is in MMA wrestling. Blessed with explosive athleticism, Pantera’s shots are blindingly fast and frighteningly authoritative. And when he’s on top, he is completely in his element. He moves his hips and passes with aplomb, and is constantly threatening with submission attempts.
Caceres is a long, lanky featherweight with a good understanding of how to use his range. Bruce Leeroy prefers to operate on his feet, and is a solid kickboxer when it comes to straight sparring. While not as flashy as Rodriguez with his strikes, Caceres has a creativity to his standup that’s less risky than the Mexican fighter’s -- plus he probably has the best afro and nickname in the UFC.
Although Caceres is a dangerous submission threat in scrambles, he lacks the strength to hold off stronger wrestlers. He’s quick enough to sprawl on a takedown or two, but he’s no Robbie Lawler when it comes to keeping fights on the feet. Even as a bantamweight, Caceres was entirely too easy to take down and control on the mat.
BREAKDOWN AND PREDICTION
If this was a straight kickboxing match, the odds would be much closer. But with Caceres’ porous defense and Rodriguez’ superb wrestling, it’s hard not to see a scenario where Bruce Leeroy is on his back for large chunks of the fight. That makes Pantera an easy pick.
If Yair’s line is too expensive for you, consider the over on 2.5 rounds at -135. Pantera is not yet an elite finisher, nor does he have one-punch knockout power. Caceres is able to go hard for three rounds easy, as we saw in his matchup with Urijah Faber. Take the over as an alternative to Rodriguez to win.
UFC odds: Namajunas UD Kowalkiewicz
HOW TO BET
With BookMaker’s quick and easy payout options, your winnings are always close at hand. 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 Fight Night 92 takes place Saturday, August 6, 2016 at the Vivint Smart Home Arena in Salt Lake City, Utah. The card will be televised on FOX Sports 1 starting 9 p.m. ET.
