UFC 271 will make some noise in Houston, Texas, for their latest event. The main event is a blockbuster second meeting between middleweights Israel Adesanya and Robert Whittaker.
In addition, the co-main event features heavyweight fighters Derrick Lewis and a rising star in Tai Tuivasa. You do not want to miss the action and betting opportunities.
When: Saturday, February 12, 2022
Where: Toyota Center in Houston, TX
Watch: PPV
Israel Adesanya vs. Robert Whittaker Prediction
The two best middleweight fighters in the UFC battle it out once again in this showdown. Adesanya, the current champ, got the better of Whittaker in the previous matchup.
Whittaker has some quality battles under his belt since that loss and has retained his number one rank in the division. Adesanya finally suffered his first defeat, but this was in a different division.
The two love to aggressively strike and defend well in the process. You could make the argument that Adesanya is better in that category, but he also has a strong takedown defense that could come in handy.
If Whittaker can repeat some success that Jan Blachowicz was able to do against Adesanya, then there might be hope. This means more time on the ground to control the pace. However, this will most likely turn into a strike fest, with Adesanya coming out ahead again.
Best Bet: Adesanya to Win -280
Derrick Lewis vs. Tai Tuivasa Prediction
Lewis and Tuivasa are no strangers to the fans and love to put on a show. Lewis is currently ranked the third best fighter in the heavyweight division, while Tuivasa is aiming to move from his 11th spot.
Both fighters love to swing heavy and go for the knockout. Even though Lewis is arguably the better fighter, it might come down to whoever lands the best punch first to get the upper hand.
Tuivasa still has some work to do if he wants to continue climbing the ladder. Lewis should be able to piece him up and win with the TKO before the third round.
Best Bet: Lewis to Win -180
Jared Cannonier vs. Derek Brunson Prediction
Before you even get to the co-main or main event, you need to catch this fight. The third-ranked Cannonier faces the fourth-ranked Brunson in an explosive battle.
Brunson has won five straight and against respectable competition. Two of those battles were against Kevin Holland and Darren Till.
Cannonier has faced top quality consistently but has failed against the best of the middleweights. He has a recent victory against Jack Hermanson, which should make his resume stand out some.
Overall, Cannonier slightly edges Brunson here for the win. Look for him to claim this tough matchup by a decision.
Best Bet: Cannonier to Win -165
UFC 271 Betting Odds
Here are the UFC 271 odds for the main card:
Israel Adesanya (-280) vs. Robert Whittaker (+225)
Derrick Lewis (-180) vs. Tai Tuivasa (+155)
Jared Cannonier (-165) vs. Derek Brunson (+145)
Kyler Phillips (-400) vs. Marcelo Rojo (+300)
Bobby Green (-140) vs. Nasrat Haqparast (+120)
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