UFC 298, Tips and Preview
Volkanovski vs. Topuria
February 18th
Two Australians will headline a mouthwatering UFC card on Sunday, with reigning champion Alexander Volkanovski putting his featherweight title on the line against undefeated Spaniard Ilia Topuria.
The market says it all when it comes to the differing opinions on the outcome of this one, with Volkanovski ($1.87) narrowly favoured over his younger rival ($1.95).
‘The Great’, who boasts a 27-3-0 fighting record, is coming off a disappointing Lightweight campaign in 2023, whereby he suffered two title fight losses to Islam Makhachev. However, he’s back in the division he’s dominated since 2019 and looking to remain undefeated via his experience, IQ, and ability to make mid-fight adjustments quickly.
While Topuria is eight years younger than the champ, his unblemished record will undoubtedly allow him to fight with the freedom of someone who feels like they’re invincible. Known for his deadly grappling and physical strength, the contender will be looking to take Volkanovski to the ground and finish him before a fifth round is required.
A battle of experience and time in the octagon against youthful exuberance and physical strength, we’re leaning towards Volkanovski on the big stage.
Suggested Bet:
Volkanovski to win at $1.87
Whittaker vs. Costa
February 18th
While the market is split on Volkanovski’s ability to retain his featherweight gong, the same can’t be said for fellow Aussie, Robert Whittaker, who is $1.35 favourite in his middleweight bout with Paulo Costa.
The former middleweight champion will be looking to kick-start his return to the top after falling to Dricus Du Plessis in a second-round stoppage loss at UFC 290 in July. A renewed focus and change of training program since that loss will ensure Whittaker is even lighter on his feet and even more devastating with his counter strikes or wrestling.
It’s been a while between drinks for the Brazilian as he returns to the octagon for the first time since beating Luke Rockhold in 2022. In fact, he’s competed just three times in three years. He will get in Whittaker’s face from the get-go and do everything he can to keep the Aussie along the fence.
After two years out of the game for Costa, we’re happy to take the short quote on Whittaker’s return to the winner’s column.
