The UFC is going out with a bang in 2015, with a free card on FOX this Saturday. Not FOX Sports 1, not FX, but the real FOX channel that’s free to every household in America. And with a lightweight title fight in the headliner and legitimate stars all over the card, there’s no excuse to miss this opportunity to score some sweet cash on a free fight right before the holidays. Let’s make some quick picks for the main card.
UFC on FOX 17 odds at BookMaker.eu
Lightweight championship bout
Donald Cerrone +210
Rafael dos Anjos -270
Over/under 4.5 rounds, over -145, under +125
Prediction: Rafael dos Anjos wins by unanimous decision
Rafael dos Anjos has evolved into one of the very best lightweights in the world right under our noses. Much of this has to do with noticeable advancements in his striking - which was already lethal to begin with. Given that Cerrone is a standup fighter as well, it’s hard not to lean towards the champion, who is faster and more athletic. Cowboy is an elite fighter, but he is slightly outclassed in his strongest area and the RDA will begin to distance himself in the championship rounds.
UFC on FOX 17 odds at BookMaker.eu
Heavyweights
Alistair Overeem +270
Junior dos Santos -350
Over/under 1.5 rounds, over +130, under -160
Prediction: Junior dos Santos by TKO in the third
The best heavyweight kickboxer will meet the division’s best boxer in a grudge match that’s been brewing for years. While Overeem, a former K-1 champion, has more of a diverse skillset on the feet, he also has one of the most exploitable Achilles heels in the weight class: his glass chin. Junior dos Santos is arguably the most durable fighter at heavyweight - surviving epic wars - and should be able to weather the oncoming blitz. From there, he just needs to plant a flush shot on Overeem’s chin to win this fight. And because his hands are unparalleled in the division, I’d bet that he does just that.
UFC on FOX 17 odds at BookMaker.eu
Lightweights
Michael Johnson -400
Nate Diaz +300
Over/under 2.5 rounds, over -135, under +105
Prediction: Johnson wins by unanimous decision
While Nate Diaz is as tough as they come, there is a clear blueprint to beat him. Johnson’s speed and athleticism makes executing that blueprint relatively simple. Expect him to turn Diaz’ lead leg purple with low kicks, throw volleys of heavy combinations and circle out of danger. Rinse and repeat for three rounds, and it’s an easy UD for Johnson.
UFC on FOX 17 odds at BookMaker.eu
Women’s strawweights
Randa Markos -185
Karolina Kowalkiewicz +160
Over under 2.5 rounds, over -275, under +230
Prediction: Markos to win by unanimous decision
Not an easy fight to call, given that the undefeated Kowalkiewicz is untested against top tier opponents. Markos is a big, strong fighter that will likely drag this fight to the ground. I’d expect the Polish newcomer to threaten with submissions, but Randa has shown solid defense, heavy top control and a superb ability to come out on top in scrambles. I’d expect her to exact a clinch and wrestling-heavy approach en route to a decision. The over is the safest bet in this fight.
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 on FOX 17 takes place Saturday, December 19, 2015 at the Amway Center in Orlando, Florida. The main card will be televised on FOX starting 8 pm. ET following the FOX Sports 1 prelims starting at 5 p.m. ET.
