UPDATE: Rodrigo Nascimento defeats Don’Tale Mayes by submission (choke) at 2:05 of Round 2

A pair of heavyweights, lead the undercard of UFC on ESPN 8 in Jacksonville as promotion newcomer Rodrigo Nascimento Ferreira faces Don’Tale Mayes tonight at the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena. This fight was originally scheduled for April 11th, and then April 25th, but was rescheduled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Nascimento is undefeated at 7-0, and impressed enough at Dana White’s Contender Series 22 in August over Michael Martinek to earn a roster spot in UFC. The Brazilian has been fighting as a pro since 2013, and has yet to go the distance in any match with five submissions and two TKO’s.

Mayes is 7-3 career, but lost his only career UFC fight in August to Cyril Gane via heel hook. He was a winner in the same Contender Series to earn a contract after having began his pro career in 2016. “King Kong” is from Louisville, and a 28 years old comes in as a slight underdog on Saturday night.

This is one of the closest UFC fight via the odds you’ll ever see, with the sharper action appearing to be on Mayes. The lack of respect for Nascimento’s opponents is understandable, as “Ze Colmeia” hasn’t fought anyone of note or ever really been challenged in MMA: he’s won six of his seven fights in the first round. But is that his talent or his challengers? That’s what handicappers need to assess before the bell.

Here are the betting splits at DraftKings Sportsbook for Rodrigo Nascimento Ferreira vs. Don’Tale Mayes at UFC on ESPN 8 on May 16th:

Update 1:30 p.m. Saturday

Rodrigo Nascimento: -112, 57% handle, 62% bets
Don’Tale Mayes: -114, 43% handle, 38% bets

Betting splits

Rodrigo Nascimento: -112, 37% handle, 61% bets
Don’Tale Mayes: -114, 63% handle, 39% bets

Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ/WV/PA) or 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN) or 1-800-522-4700 (NH/CO). NH/NJ/WV/IN/PA/CO only. 21+ (18+ NH). Eligibility Restrictions Apply. See website for details.