UFC Jacksonville Betting Preview: Can Josh Emmett Derail the Ilia Topuria Hype Train?

As we delve into the summer season, it can only mean one thing: a barrage of UFC events every weekend until the end of September. This week, UFC Jacksonville takes the spotlight, featuring a critical featherweight showdown between top-10 contenders Josh Emmett and Ilia Topuria. But before we delve into that matchup, let’s explore the 13 other fights on the card and identify the ones worth betting on.

Please note that all odds mentioned are courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook.

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Straight Bets:

Neil Magny at -170

When Neil Magny steps into the Octagon to face Phil Rowe on Saturday, it’s as if he’s fighting his own mirror image. Both Magny and Rowe possess nearly identical physiques and employ similar fighting styles. However, the glaring disparity lies in Magny’s superiority across the board. He excels in clinch fighting, offensive wrestling, grappling, and boasts a significantly better endurance. All these factors paint a bleak picture for Rowe.

Austen Lane at +150

It’s impossible for me to watch UFC Jacksonville without placing a wager on Duval’s beloved Austen Lane. For those unaware, Lane was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the fifth round of the 2010 draft, playing three seasons for the team as a rookie defensive end. He emerged as an All-American football player from Murray State, reaching the finals for the Buck Buchanan Award. Lane’s career featured an impressive 55 tackles for loss. Let’s compare that to Justin Tafa’s record. The argument speaks for itself.

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Prop Bets:

Brendan Allen by Submission at +175

Brendan Allen’s recent form has been nothing short of remarkable. At just 27 years old, he already possesses a wealth of experience and displays a classic example of a fighter honing his skills on the fly, steadily improving over time. In his most recent outing, he dominated Andre Muniz, a highly regarded opponent who had previously submitted Jacare Souza. I believe Allen can replicate that success against Bruno Silva. While Silva wields dangerous punching power and decent wrestling, he has been submitted on six occasions, including less than a year ago by Gerald Meerschaert. Allen is currently on an upward trajectory.

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Parlay of the Week:

This week, I present to you a gimmick, the RB Parlay!

Amanda Ribas/Maycee Barber Over 2.5 Rounds at -215

Both Ribas and Barber are durable fighters, with Ribas having been finished only once in her UFC career, and Barber having never been stopped. Additionally, Ribas’ last five out of eight UFC fights went to a decision, and Barber has seen the judges’ scorecards in her previous six bouts. This fight is likely to go the distance.

Randy Brown at -225

Randy Brown finds himself in a favorable position here. Turman isn’t known for his striking prowess and has suffered two brutal losses in the UFC. In contrast, Brown is a potent striker, boasts solid takedown defense, and holds a significant size advantage. Unless Turman has made significant strides in his skill set, it appears he’s in for a long night of unsuccessful takedowns and punishing right hands from Brown.

Combine these two bets for odds of +111.

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Longshot of the Week:

Josh Emmett by KO/TKO/DQ in Round 1 at +1400

Let’s be clear: I anticipate Ilia Topuria emerging victorious in this bout. Nevertheless, the odds seem slightly favorable for an upset. Topuria often showcases an aggressive style that borders on recklessness, and Emmett possesses devastating power that can capitalize on such tendencies. Yair Rodriguez is the only one who managed to survive Topuria’s relentless onslaught due to his exceptional durability. While Topuria seems to possess a solid chin, it hasn’t been thoroughly tested. Jai Herbert nearly finished him off, and in the early stages of the fight, Emmett will have opportunities. The question remains whether he can capitalize on them.

Wrap Up:

Last week produced mixed results, with successful predictions in the parlay and the Sergio Pettis fight, but some misses elsewhere. This week, we have numerous straight plays, so let’s hope the favorites deliver.

Until next week, enjoy the fights, good luck, and remember to gamble responsibly!

Please note that all information provided in this article is for entertainment, news, and amusement purposes only. Readers of MMA Hook are responsible for familiarizing themselves with online gambling laws in their respective regions before engaging in any online sports betting activities.

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More about UFC betting

• UFC Jacksonville Official Website: Link
• DraftKings Sportsbook: Link
• Josh Emmett Fighter Profile: Link
• Ilia Topuria Fighter Profile: Link