UFC 322 Betting Preview: Two Plus-Money Plays to Target Saturday Night

One of the most stacked fight cards of the year is here, headlined by one of the most anticipated matchups in the sport as Islam Makhachev looks to become a two-division champion by defeating welterweight belt holder Jack Della Maddalena.

Islam Makhachev by decision/technical decision (+180)

For all the hype surrounding Ilia Topuria and Merab Dvalishvili in the pound-for-pound discussion, it’s still difficult to argue against Makhachev as that guy until someone takes his crown. Jack Della Maddalena presents a steeper challenge than any opponent Makhachev has faced during his dominant run, but Makhachev remains a far more well-rounded fighter despite being primarily known for his wrestling.

There’s a slight chance Della Maddalena executes a stunning knockout — one that would send shockwaves throughout the sports universe — but almost every other realistic outcome leans firmly in favor of Makhachev. Vegas and I agree we’ll hear an “And Still” call after a five-round battle. I don’t think it’ll be particularly close, but I do think it goes the distance.

Leon Edwards to defeat Carlos Prates (+140)

Prates was impressive in his first-round finish of Geoff Neal in August, but his loss to Ian Machado Garry showed that The Fighting Nerds aren’t invincible — the right fighter can have any of their numbers on any given night.

Enter Leon Edwards. The former champion matches up well here as a technical, disciplined fighter who excels at maintaining distance and avoiding the traps Prates is so good at setting. Expect Edwards to look for an early takedown to keep this fight on the ground, a strategy that should serve him well against a largely one-dimensional striker.

The hype from Prates’ last performance — deserved as it is — has Edwards listed at odds that are simply too tempting to ignore. If you’re feeling bold, parlaying these two plus-money plays could make for a very interesting ticket come Sunday morning.