On Saturday, July 25th, the UFC holds its final “Fight Island” event of the month. Fight fans have a stacked card to look forward to, with several important bouts taking place on the prelims and main card. Today, I’m offering up the ultimate betting guide for UFC Fight Island 3, breaking down the five best fights available to bet on.
In reality, every single fight on this card is offering bettors some great opportunities. The fights below are the ones I think provide the best overall odds. Before getting into the odds, however, I’ll look at which site is the best for wagering on this event.
Let’s check it out!
Best UFC Betting Site for Till vs. Whittaker
The sport of mixed martial arts continues to grow in popularity every single week. The UFC, in particular, is seeing its fan base grow considerably right now. Part of the reason for that is the promotion’s weekly schedule of incredible fight cards.
Obviously, UFC betting is growing more popular right now, as well. More sports gamblers are realizing how many great opportunities these mixed martial arts events offer. After careful consideration, I’ve narrowed down which online sportsbook is the best for betting on this weekend’s card.
That online sportsbook is Bovada. Since launching in 2011, it’s become one of the most trusted sports betting websites in the US. Members love its modern design, safe payment options, and huge range of MMA odds.
Unlike some sites, Bovada offers many different odds for individual fights. It allows bettors the opportunity to bet on the method of victory, which round the fight ends, etc… I love this site and feel that all other MMA fans will, too.
Now let’s look at the best fights to bet on!
Betting Guide for UFC Fight Island 3: Best Odds Available
There are many intriguing fights taking place on Saturday. We’re seeing legends entering into the twilight of their careers and young prospects looking for their shot at a title. Each of the fights listed below offers members of Bovada some serious opportunities to win big.
#1: Alexander Gustafsson (-350) vs. Fabricio Werdum (+265)
One of the most exciting bouts scheduled to take place on the main card of this weekend’s card takes place between Alexander Gustafsson and Fabricio Werdum. This is also one of the most overlooked bouts of the night. Both of these men are world-class and this should be an intriguing bout while it lasts.
Some might argue that neither Gustafsson nor Werdum are in the prime of their careers. That may be true. With proper training camps, however, either could become champions in the heavyweight division.
Prediction: Gustafsson Wins Via 1st-Round KO
If this fight was booked to take place a few years ago, this prediction would be much different. Fabricio Werdum looked slow and unmotivated in his most recent fight, though, and some feel he’s simply looking to finish his contract with the UFC. This is Gustafsson’s first fight in the UFC and I believe he’ll perform even better in the new weight class. Expect him to push the pace early and land a knockout punch before the end of the first round.
#2: Alex Oliveira (-175) vs. Peter Sobotta (+145)
The second bout of the main card takes place between Alex Oliviera and Peter Sobotta. In some ways, this was the toughest fight to predict while forming this betting guide for UFC Fight Island 3. From a betting perspective, it’s a great one to keep an eye on.
On the right day, Alex Oliviera can beat anyone in the welterweight division. Peter Sobotta is a grizzled veteran of mixed martial arts, though, and Alex’s wild style isn’t likely to faze him. I like the underdog here to get the job done.
Prediction: Sobotta Wins Via Unanimous Decision
Peter Sobotta isn’t the most well-known fighter at 170 pounds. He’s as tough as they come, though, and I believe he has a great style to give Oliviera trouble. At +145, this one could earn you some serious cash.
#3: Khamzat Chimaev (-900) vs. Rhys Mckee (+550)
This fight features the biggest disparity in betting odds. It’s fairly easy to see why. Chimaev competed just a few weeks ago and had one of the most dominant performances in recent memory. Many already feel he’s a future title contender and he’s getting a very quick turnaround in the fight this weekend.
Not a lot is known about Rhys McKee. He’s 10-2 as a professional from the UK. He’ll need to utilize solid takedown defense if he plans to win this Saturday. That’s much easier said than done.
Prediction: Chimaev Wins Via 1st-Round Submission
I agree with the oddsmakers and analysts on this one. Khamzat Chimaev looks like a special talent and is coming off an incredible performance just a couple of weeks ago. A bet on Chimaev to win won’t exactly make you rich, yet I feel he’s a great addition to any parlay.
#4: Paul Graig (-115) vs. Gadzhimurad Antigulov (-115)
Not many would predict that this bout would end up on my betting guide for UFC Fight Island 3. It might not look like it, but this fight is offering a fantastic opportunity for bettors. In fact, I am surprised that the odds are not swayed more in favor of one of these men.
Paul Craig has struggled to put together any kind of win streak in the UFC. His last performance was arguably the best of his career, as he earned a draw against Mauricio “Shogun” Rua. Gadzhimurad hasn’t looked great in his past two bouts, yet it’s clear based on his record that he’s a serious talent.
Prediction: Antigulov Wins Via Unanimous Decision
I could see how some bettors would take Craig here. Despite losing his past two fights, however, Antigulov is a legitimately talented mixed martial artist with tons of potential. Craig has shown a weakness against strong wrestlers and I expect Antigulov to control the action on the ground for three rounds en route to a decision win.
#5: Marina Rodriguez (-170) vs. Carla Esparza (+140)
The last addition to this betting guide for UFC Fight Island 3 features two exciting strawweight fighters hoping to earn a championship opportunity. Marina Rodriguez is undefeated in her career, yet she’s recorded draws against the top-level competition she faces. Carla Esparza is a former champion and has recorded wins in her past three bouts.
This is another one that the oddsmakers seem to have rushed. Rodriguez is extremely talented, yet she’s facing a very tough test here. Those looking for solid upsets may have a winner here.
Prediction: Esparza Wins Via 2nd-Round Submission
Carla Esparza has only lost to the best fighters at 115 pounds. In fact, many feel she should be 6-1 in her past seven bouts. I think she mixed up striking and takedowns before earning a submission win in the second round.
UFC Fight Cards Scheduled For August
The month of August was an incredible one for fans of mixed martial arts. Based on the way things are looking, August will be even better. Below is a quick look at some of the other events scheduled to take place next month.
UFC Fight Night: Holm vs. Aldana (August 1st)
UFC Fight Night 174 (August 8th)
UFC 252: Miocic vs. Cormier 3 (August 15th)
UFC Fight Night 175 (August 22nd)
UFC Fight Night 176 (August 29th)
Each of these events should be incredible. UFC 252, in particular, is a great fight card for MMA fans. Feel free to check out our betting blog for that event here! Stay tuned for more updates on these cards over the next couple of weeks.
Do you agree with our betting guide for UFC Fight Island 3? Which bout are you looking forward to the most? Let us know in the comments section below!