After weeks of speculation surrounding a potential bout between the two, new Lightweight champion Eddie Alvarez has certainly made his intentions clear, with Conor McGregor firmly in the American’s sights for UFC 205 in New York City. Despite no deal having been officially agreed between all parties, it is believed that both men are keen to ensure that such an event goes ahead at Madison Square Gardens on November 12. Alvarez won the title earlier this year thanks to a knock-out victory over former champion Rafael Dos Anjos, and after claiming UFC gold for the first time at the age of 32, looks set to take on the biggest name in the industry next. Despite the Irishman undoubtedly being the favourite in the sports betting odds should such a contest come to fruition, Alvarez certainly fancies his chances after his display last time around.
Despite Alvarez’s apparent want to face McGregor at any cost, UFC president Dana White may have other ideas, with the American revealing that Alvarez may well come up against Khabib Nurmagomedov instead. Although the unbeaten Russian would certainly provide stern competition for Alvarez, it would not carry the same stature as a bout with the iconic Irishman.
Following his dominant victory over Dos Anjos, Alvarez made it clear to all that his desire was to face the winner of the matchup between McGregor and Nate Diaz at UFC 202. With McGregor gaining revenge over Diaz with a unanimous decision win, rumours regarding his next fight quickly mounted. Despite all roads seemingly leading to Alvarez and McGregor facing off on Nov. 12, there is still no sign of an official announcement, with bookmakers Coral offering sports betting odds for contests between McGregor and Frankie Edgar, as well as Jose Aldo.
Elsewhere at UFC 205, Welterweight champion Tyron Woodley will take on Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson, in what is the only confirmed fight on the New York card to date. However, several other bouts are rumoured to be close to being announced, with a middleweight matchup between Chris Weidman and Yoel Romero certainly one to get fans excited. Coral currently have Woodley as the 4/7 favourite in their sports betting market, with the 34-year-old having just three career losses to his name.
