As fight night approaches, anticipation is building for UFC 317, one of the most highly anticipated events on the mixed martial arts calendar. With a stacked card featuring top contenders and rising stars, bettors are eager to know where to place their wagers. ESPN spoke with a panel of experts who have dissected the matchups and identified the fighters they believe offer the best value and odds. In this article, we break down the experts’ picks and best bets, providing fans with informed insights to guide their betting decisions ahead of the octagon showdown.
Expert Analysis Breakdown Fight by Fight
When breaking down UFC 317’s matchup card, experts highlight several key variables that could decisively shift momentum inside the Octagon. In the main event, Jon “Thunder” Richards is favored due to his superior striking accuracy and relentless pace, contrasting sharply with opponent Marcus Lee’s endurance vulnerabilities in later rounds. Analysts emphasize Richards’ strategic use of leg kicks to destabilize opponents, making him a promising pick for bettors seeking value beyond simple win/loss odds.
Meanwhile, the co-main event between two emerging contenders offers a compelling clash of styles. Samantha “The Viper” Cortez boasts a submission rate above 70%, placing her as a strong favorite against Luis Martinez, whose defensive grappling has raised questions. Experts note the striking exchanges could be pivotal early, but expect Cortez to gradually impose her ground game. Below is a quick comparison table outlining critical fight metrics that underpin expert predictions:
| Metric | Jon Richards | Marcus Lee |
|---|---|---|
| Striking Accuracy | 58% | 47% |
| Significant Strikes Absorbed | 1.8/min | 3.2/min |
| Win Streak | 5 | 2 |
- Richards: Heavy leg kicks, high output, cardio edge.
- Lee: Power striker, less durable, needs early finish.
- Cortez vs. Martinez: Grappling dominant vs. striking finesse, with Cortez’s submissions favored late.
Top Betting Picks and Strategies for UFC 317
When it comes to UFC 317, savvy bettors are focusing on fighters who demonstrate a blend of striking precision and ground control. Charles Oliveira, with his recent string of submission victories, remains a top pick for those favoring grappling dominance. Meanwhile, Islam Makhachev continues to impress with his relentless wrestling and conditioning, making him a favorite in his matchup. Experts recommend keeping an eye on how fighters perform in early rounds-those who can secure a quick finish often offer valuable early-bettor odds.
In terms of strategies, betting on fighters with a strong takedown defense or the ability to dictate the pace is essential. Here are a few key tactics to consider before placing bets:
- Look for fighters with recent wins via submission or TKO, indicating momentum and finishing instincts.
- Check opponents’ endurance stats-fighters known for late-round stamina often perform better in five-round bouts.
- Consider underdog bets when fighters have shown consistent improvement or recent upsets in comparable matchups.
- Evaluate stylistic matchups, such as striker vs. grappler, to identify who can control the fight.
| Fighter | Style | Recent Form | Recommended Bet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charles Oliveira | Submission Specialist | W4 (3 Submissions) | Win by Submission |
| Islam Makhachev | Wrestling Dominance | W5 (Unanimous) | Win by Decision |
| Joaquin Buckley | Dynamic Striker | L1, W3 (TKO) | Win by KO |
Insights and Conclusions
As UFC 317 approaches, the experts have weighed in, providing valuable insights and confident selections to guide bettors through one of the year’s most anticipated fight nights. While mixed martial arts always carries an element of unpredictability, the analysis presented offers a clear perspective on which fighters present the most promising opportunities. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a casual fan, staying informed with expert picks can be the difference between a winning night and a missed chance. Stay tuned as the action unfolds and the betting champions emerge at UFC 317.
