Tonight at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois, Dricus Du Plessis defends his 185-pound title against No. 3 Khamzat Chimaev in the Main Event of UFC 319. In the co-main event, undefeated contender No. 6 Lerone Murphy takes on UFC newcomer Aaron Pico.
Here are my best bets for this week’s UFC 319 PPV.
Khamzat Chimaev to Win by KO/TKO/DQ or Submission (-140)
Chimaev enters this fight as the challenger but is still the favorite at -278 on DraftKings Sportsbook. But since 12 of his 14 wins have been by knockout or submission, it is wise to get him at -140 to finish Du Plessis.
Chimaev fights with a pace that very few can match. If Chimaev begins this fight quickly while using his full arsenal, it is unlikely that DDP will be able to keep up. With Chimaev’s 100% percent takedown defense, it will make Du Plessis a one-dimensional fighter. Even though Du Plessis is extremely skilled, until someone proves they can stop the unbeatable Chimaev, it is hard not to back him.
Aaron Pico to Win by KO/TKO/DQ or Submission (+240)
Aaron Pico’s UFC debut is here! At 28 years old, Pico enters the promotion with plenty of hype behind him. He is renowned for his exceptional finishing ability. Although Pico hasn’t fought in 18 months, his last two fights were won by KO/TKO.
His opponent, Lerone Murphy, has won eight straight fights and is undefeated. Since Pico is the smaller fighter, he will need to push the pace and pressure Murphy from the start of the contest. Getting Pico to win by KO/TKO/DQ or submission at +240 is excellent value considering he is -170 on the moneyline.
