The opening bout of the UFC 318 Main Card features a lightweight bout between veteran Michael Johnson and Daniel Zellhuber. The 26-year-old is 3-1 in the UFC and is coming off a split decision loss to Esteban Ribovics. Meanwhile, Johnson has won two straight fights for the first time since 2018.
Here is my best bet for Zellhuber vs. Johnson at UFC 318.
Daniel Zellhuber to Win by KO/TKO/DQ or Submission (-125)
Even though Johnson has 26 more fights in the UFC, Zellhuber is a horrible matchup for the veteran. Zellhuber has a four-inch larger reach while being taller by two inches. That will allow him to keep Johnson at range while landing multiple combinations.
Since Zellhuber is a -625 favorite, getting him to win this bout by KO/TKO/DQ at -125 on DraftKings Sportsbook is the better play. Zellhuber has 10 finishes in his career and is in a great position to pick up his first victory via knockout or submission since 2023. Also, Zellhuber’s quick and fast-paced style should wear Johnson down early on in this contest.
At 26 years old, Zellhuber has a bright future, but to truly put his career on the fast track, a big finish would be beneficial. Zellhuber allows over six strikeouts per minute and needs to display an improved defensive game plan against Johnson. If he does show improvement in that area, a finish is doable against Johnson.
