UFC Vegas 71 predictions & odds
By Brian Cook
UFC Vegas 71 main card predictions and betting odds.
The MMA leader returns to Las Vegas as UFC Vegas 71 takes place at The UFC Apex Saturday, April 22, 2023. We'll predict the main card fights and provide betting odds for those interested in wagering.
Power puncher supreme Sergei Pavlovich ranked No. 3 at heavyweight, faces the No. 4 ranked Curtis Blaydes in the main event. Pavlovich is on a five-fight win streak, all by first-round stoppage. Blaydes is on a three-fight win streak himself. This fight could skyrocket the winner to a title fight.
Bantamweight veterans Brad Tavares and Bruno Silva face off in the new co-main event. Tavares is coming off a loss to Dricus Du Plessis, where he had his moments; this is his 22nd UFC fight. Silva's last appearance ended in a submission loss to Gerald Meerschaert.
Fight predictions and betting odds for UFC Vegas 71
Sergei Pavlovich (+145) vs. Curtis Blaydes (-170)
The stakes couldn't be higher than they are for both men. Pavlovich hasn't seen a second round in the UFC; and will stalk his opponent, looking for his big overhand right. His power is nuclear, with his only UFC loss coming to Allistair Overeem in his debut. Blaydes should look for the takedown quickly after briefly setting it up with strikes. Blaydes is the more well-rounded fighter but tends to prove his stand-up too much. Pavlovich will catch him and win via KO/TKO.
Brad Tavares (-155) vs. Bruno Silva (+150)
Tavares and Silva could both stand and throw down. They both have power and toughness. The difference is Tavares can defend a takedown better and has so much experience. Silva will probably hurt Tavares early, but as usual, Tavares will weather the storm. Tavares will use the clinch game to get Silva down and earn the decision win.
Bobby Green (-250) vs. Jared Gordon (+210)
Green will have the speed advantage and be very elusive. Gordon will step forward and bring the fight to Green. Many people were surprised at Gordon's effort against UFC darling Paddy Pimblett and thought he won the contest. Green will have to talk less and fight more, and Gordon will need the takedown with damage. Nevertheless, Gordon comes in with confidence and leaves with a decision win.
Iasmin Lucindo (-330) vs. Brogan Walker (+255)
Anyone who watched Lucindo's debut versus fellow debutant Yasmin Jauregui saw both ladies' brilliant, high-level striking performances. On the flip side, watching Walker fight in the TUF finale against a lesser opponent was less than impressive. Lucindo will win by KO/TKO.
Jeremiah Wells (-110) vs. Matthew Semelsberger (-110)
Semelsberger is more well-rounded than Wells. Wells has never seen a third round in the UFC; he will this time, and Semelsberger will be the much fresher fighter. Semelsberger wins by decision.
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