The last time we did a props piece, we focused on some stunning upsets and cashed on two big bets. This time around, we’re going the other way: squash fights. UFC 278 is a chalk bettors’ dream as half the card features lopsided matchups per the UFC betting odds. Instead of betting the barn on these big favorites, take to the prop bet market instead.
Let’s check the latest UFC news, stats, injury reports, and UFC odds for UFC 278. We’ve plenty of UFC picks and predictions for you to consider.
UFC 278: Usman vs Edwards 2 Props
Maverick Taps Young Again
In this unofficial rematch, Miranda Maverick (10-4-0) should once again outgrapple Shanna Young (8-4-0). Maverick took her back and submitted her in Invicta. She has a sizable grappling edge and Young, despite pulling off an upset in her last fight, is in the UFC to make fighters like Maverick look good. A round 1 submission win for Maverick is at +375 and also worth a bet online.
Pick: M Maverick By KO, TKO, DQ or Submission +110
Woodson Puts On A Show Against Saldana
After briefly getting derailed, Sean Woodson (9-1-0) is quickly picking up steam again. He’s got a tailor-made matchup against Luis Saldana (16-7-0). The two can make for a “Fight of the Night” because they throw down. Woodson has a pinpoint striking, hence his moniker of “Sniper”, while Saldana keeps his hands too low. The favorite will tee up on Saldana and knock him out at some point.
Pick: S Woodson By KO, TKO, DQ, or Submission +160
Pedro Annihilates Hansucker
The UFC wants to Tyson Pedro (8-3-0) to get back in the contenders’ circle so they offer Harry Hansucker’s (7-5-0) head on a plate. Pedro should blitz through Hansucker and hand him his sixth first-round knockout loss. At -800, Pedro is the largest favorite on the card. This prop is the best UFC bet for this squash fight.
Pick: T Pedro By KO/TKO/DQ and Round 1 -145
🔟 DAYS TO GO!
🇦🇺’s @Tyson_Pedro_ kicks off the main card at #UFC278 next weekend! pic.twitter.com/Di4ZVQoKLi
— UFC_AUSNZ (@UFC_AUSNZ) August 11, 2022
Romanov Puts Tybura Away Late
Alexandr Romanov (16-0-0) has slowly been crushing the opponents the UFC has thrown at him. Marcin Tybura (22-7-0) is his best opponent to date but also one he should manhandle. The Romanian has some bear-like strength and is one of the better wrestlers in the division.
Tybura may have some decent takedown defense, but Romanov will relentlessly keep at it. He’s averaging 6.46 takedowns per 15 minutes at a 69% clip. At some point, he’ll break Tybura and bash him on the mat until the referee jumps in. The online sportsbook pays 10-1 for him to do it in the third. That’s worth a dart throw.
Pick: A Romanov By KO/TKO/DQ and Round 3 +1000
UFC 278 Fights Info
- Date: Saturday August 20th, 6:00 p.m. ET
- Venue: Vivint Arena, Salt Lake City, Utah
- UFC 278 Live Stream: UFC Fight Pass
Costa Blasts Through Rockhold
Luke Rockhold (16-5-0) is back and is throwing some haymakers via his mouth. Unfortunately for him, the only punches that will count are the ones in the octagon. A fighter with three knockout losses in his last four fights shouldn’t be talking trash. Rockhold is also coming from a three-year layoff.
Paulo Costa (13-2-0) may be on a two-fight skid, but this is the perfect fight for him. Even if he starts a bit slow and takes time to find his range, he could just flatten Rockhold with the first clean punch he lands. At nearly double your wager, bet on Costa to dust Rockhold in the first round.
Pick: P Costa By KO/TKO/DQ and Round 1 +185
