We’ve been previewing bouts for this Saturday’s UFC on FOX 18 all week, but in case you missed anything, we’ve got our handy quick pick guide for you today. This is an entirely free card on network television, so there’s no excuse for you not to miss out if you’re a UFC fan. Let’s start at the top, with a light heavyweight title eliminator.
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 on FOX 18 odds at BookMaker.eu
Anthony Johnson -305
Ryan Bader +250
Over/under 1.5 rounds, over -125, under +105
PREDICTION: Johnson wins by TKO in round 2
This is just a horrible matchup for Bader, who has to avoid standing up with “Rumble” at all costs. While Bader is one of the best wrestlers in the division, only Daniel Cormier - an Olympic-level wrestler - has been able to successfully ground Johnson. If Phil Davis couldn’t drag Johnson to the mat, I don’t see any way Bader does.
Although “Darth” packs some pop in his punches, Johnson is arguably the most terrifying hitman in the UFC. Johnson’s athleticism should allow him to fend off Bader’s takedowns, and from there it’s just a matter of time before Rumble crumbles bader.
Bet on UFC on FOX 18 odds at BookMaker.eu
Ben Rothwell +120
Josh Barnett -140
Over/under 2.5 rounds, over +140, under -165
PREDICTION: Barnett wins by unanimous decision
Just by looking at Rothwell and watching him fight, you have to wonder how he’s a top-10 heavyweight. He’s doughy, slow and covered with so much body hair you feel sorry for the guy that has to grapple him. But much to the UFC’s dismay, he just keeps winning fights and blessing every MMA fan with victory dances that would make the whitest Mormons cringe.
But it’s hard not to see Rothwell’s resurgence coming to an end against one of the most experienced fighters in the division. Barnett rarely makes mistakes, and his catch wrestling is the perfect strength against Rothwell’s subpar takedown defense.
Bet on UFC on FOX 18 odds at BookMaker.eu
Iuri Alcantara +140
Jimmie Rivera -170
Over/under 2.5 rounds, over -180, under +155
PREDICTION: Rivera wins by unanimous decision
Honestly, my prediction could change tomorrow. While Rivera is one of the brightest prospects in the bantamweight division, Alcantara is one of the staunchest vets as well. Many are big things from Rivera in 2016, and it’s hard not to get caught up in the hype. Still, I’d probably stay away from this fight, because we just don’t know what to expect from Rivera in his toughest fight yet.
Bet on UFC on FOX 18 odds at BookMaker.eu
Sage Northcutt -335
Bryan Barberena +275
Over/under 1.5 rounds, over -135, under +115
PREDICTION: Northcutt wins by TKO in Round 2
Confession: I have no idea who Andrew Bryan Barberena is. All I know is that the UFC is still in early stages of grooming 19-year old Northcutt into a superstar, and the training wheels are still on. Holbrook may be 10-3, but in no way can he match up physically with Northcutt, who appears to be a generational talent.
If Northcutt was facing a veteran of note, I’d be a bit cautious, but this is just another showcase fight for the kid. He’s expensive, but a great choice to build a parlay bet on.
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 18 takes place on January 30, 2016 at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. The main card will be televised on FOX following the prelims on FOX Sports 1.
