After a week off, the UFC returns, however, this time to the UFC Apex for UFC on ESPN+ 93. Headlining the event is two middleweight contenders, both of whom are looking to put their names in the hat to compete for the championship now the division is headed by Dricus du Plessis.
The co-main event guarantees fireworks as Renato Moicano and Drew Dober meet in an attempt to extend their respective finishing streaks.
Elsewhere, there are plenty of competitive match-ups, all of which could go either way. We have undefeated stars, fighters changing weight classes in an attempt to recapture lost form and lots more. We give you some of our best bets and predictions for this weekend’s card.
UFC on ESPN+ 93 – Best Bets and Predictions
Renato Moicano vs. Drew Dober – Under 2.5 rounds
This one is certified fireworks. These two men hold a combined 30 finishes in various manners so picking either man via stoppage is a tough one. If it goes the way of submission, edge on the side of the Brazilian. Moicano holds 10 submission victories, but don’t get that stat twisted, he’s more than capable on the feet. More often than not, he hurts opponents on the feet before forcing them to quit on the ground.
Dober has heavy hands. The American has knocked out four of his last five opponents and his last seven wins have all come via knockout. Moicano is undefeated at lightweight in the UFC and there’s a good chance that not having to cut weight has aided his ability to take a shot.
These two will go all out for the victory, so which ever way it goes, don’t expect to see the final bell. Under 2.5 rounds is a good bet in this one.
Molly McCann via Submission (Finally)
Molly McCann will attempt to snap her two-fight losing skid with a move down to 115lbs. She takes on a former foe in Diana Belbita, a woman who she previously dominated 30-26 x 3 in 2019.
It isn’t a hidden secret that Meatball has been working heavily on her ground game in recent years and has openly admitted that she wishes for a submission finish, something that she has yet to achieve in her professional MMA career. She made a name for herself being a hard-headed brawler, however, has rounded out her game far better in recent times and become a good grappler. With that being said, her defensive grappling still leaves a lot to be desired. Belbita had four submission losses on her record so picking McCann via submission would be a good pick.
The Warrior Princess is more than capable on the ground herself with four submissions on her record, but if McCann can get in top position, she’s far more likely to be able to dominate on the ground.
Pete Rodriguez via Round 1 TKO/TKO
Stepping in on short notice, Pete Rodriguez isn’t going to want a long, drawn-out fight where his cardio could come in to question. He’s going to want to get in there and get out quickly.
Five wins, all via knockout? Rodriguez will get this one done.
