There aren’t many fighters at 135 pounds who can put opponents away with a single punch. But John Dodson and John Lineker are two dudes known for dynamite power in pint-sized frames. This Saturday, they’ll square off in the main event of UFC Fight Night 96 in Portland. Currently, Dodson is a slight favorite going into the contender bout.
Bet on UFC odds at BookMaker.eu
John Dodson -120
John Lineker +100
Over/under 2.5 rounds, over -110, under -110
Please note, the UFC odds at BookMaker are updated daily.
Odds Analysis
It’s pretty much a pick’em, with Dodson getting a small nod as a -120 favorite and Lineker an even money line at +100. It makes sense, considering Dodson has a more accomplished resume. The round total for this five-rounder is split down the middle at 2.5 rounds, with both the over and under set at -110.
Fight Preview
The bantamweight division is defined by the dizzying speed and athleticism of its smaller fighters, two traits that both Dodson and Lineker have in spades. But their punching power makes them special - and what makes this fight so exciting.
At 5’3”, Dodson is one of the most athletic fighters in the UFC, few can forget how his speed caused No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter Demetrious Johnson serious problems in their first title encounter. His quicks and flexibility make him extremely difficult to take down, which makes him an effective sprawl and brawler.
Because he’s usually the shorter fighter, “The Magician” has had to develop superb timing to go with this slip-and-rip style. His aggressiveness suits him well, as he invades the pocket and forces opponents to swing. From there, it only takes one of his looping hooks to put down a fighter.
Lineker comes into the bout on a five fight win streak, with his most recent bout an eye-opening win over the respected Michael McDonald. Like Dodson, “Hands of Stone” is most comfortable when he is applying pressure, but he tends to be the first one to start firing. He is extremely willing to stand and trade, and his durability is a plus - he’s never been KO’d in 34 pro fights.
Perhaps the best part of Lineker’s game is his commitment to body shots. He assault the ribs of his opponents, and it’s aurally pleasing to hear them land with heavy thuds. And because Lineker’s cardio is better than ever at 135 pounds, those rib shots set him up better for fights that go deep into the later rounds.
Betting Values
This is pretty much a toss-up fight, but I’d lean towards Dodson to win. His speed should be the difference-maker against Lineker, who needs to trap his opponents to be effective. In space, Dodson has the advantage, and it’s likely he’ll make sure to stay in the center of the octagon.
The over on 2.5 rounds is also a good play. Both men are extremely durable, and this is likely to be a chess match early as they try to find their pace and timing. Their knockout power could definitely end the fight early, but they are both skilled strikers that are hard to hit clean.
UFC odds: Dodson UD Lineker
How to Bet
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 96 takes place on Saturday, October 1, 2016 at the Moda Center in Portland, Oregon. FOX Sports 1 will televise the main card starting 9 p.m. ET following the Fight Pass prelims.
