UFC 330 is set to feature a 12-fight card, including two title fights. The event is expected to see a majority of bouts conclude inside the distance, with nine of the 12 fights projected to end by knockout or submission.
The preliminary card is scheduled to begin at 5 p.m. ET on Paramount+, followed by the main card at 9 p.m. ET.
Islam Makhachev vs. Ian Machado Garry
In the main event, Islam Makhachev faces Ian Machado Garry. Garry, a former lightweight champion, is noted for his talent and potential size advantage over Makhachev. However, concerns exist about his tendency to play it safe and a perceived lack of fight awareness, citing an instance where he accepted bottom position for an extended period in a previous fight.
Despite these reservations, Garry is described as a strong counter-puncher with good takedown defense who won't be out of his depth if taken down. As a significant underdog at +290, he presents a potential betting opportunity due to his underlying skills and larger frame. The analysis suggests Garry's unusual body triangle from bottom position can stall opponents but costs valuable time. While submission by Makhachev is considered unlikely, Garry's potential lack of urgency could lead to losing rounds. Ultimately, the odds are seen as too wide, with a target on Garry to win on the moneyline, and value on a knockout at 11/1, especially considering Makhachev's past knockdown by a smaller opponent.
Mackenzie Dern vs. Gillian Robertson
The co-main event features Mackenzie Dern against Gillian Robertson. Robertson is making her anticipated championship debut, having shown significant improvement in both grappling and striking, including a dominant TKO victory. However, Dern is recognized as one of the division's premier submission artists.
Despite Dern's grappling prowess, Robertson is considered undervalued due to her activity, strength, and willingness to inflict damage. The prediction favors Robertson to win by KO/TKO via ground and pound, with odds of 14/1.
Full UFC 330 Card Predictions
- Jalin Turner vs. Kaue Fernandes: Turner by decision (+650)
- Mansur Abdul-Malik vs. Dustin Stoltzfus: Abdul-Malik by KO/TKO in round one (+200)
- Edson Barboza vs. Esteban Ribovics: Ribovics to win and the fight starts Round 2 (-120 or better)
- Chidi Njokuani vs. Joel Alvarez: Alvarez by submission (+195)
- Charles Johnson vs. Eduardo Chapolin: Fight goes the distance (-176)
- Donte Johnson vs. Eric McConico: Johnson by KO/TKO (+128)
- Vicente Luque vs. Tresean Gore: Gore by KO/TKO (+380)
- Rafael Tobias vs. Lucas Fernando: Pass
- Neil Magny vs. Ramiz Brahimaj: Fight goes the distance (+173)
- Jeremiah Wells vs. Myktybek Orolbai: Orolbai by submission (+245)