UFC Fight Night 116: Rockhold vs. Branch
Date: September 16, 2017
Arena: PPG Paints Arena
City: Pittsburgh, PA
The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is headed back to Pittsburgh, PA for the third time in promotional history with UFC Fight Night 116: Rockhold vs. Branch. The 10-fight card is scheduled to kick off with preliminary action on FOX Sports 1 at 8 p.m., with the main card getting going on the same channel at 10 p.m. ET. If interested in wagering on any bouts for these fight cards, all betting lines are made available at Several Bookmakers.
Here are my plays…
Lightweight bout: Olivier Aubin-Mercier (-115) vs. Tony Martin (+105)
Gabe’s Thoughts: I believe Martin is the superior mixed martial artist heading into this 155-pound matchup, and I believe his edge on the feet is going to make the difference. I expect him to keep the fight standing and outstrike Aubin-Mercier, potentially securing a T/KO stoppage. I think Martin should be a -180 betting favorite in this bout, so I like him for a play at his current offering underdog price of +105.
Gabe’s Call: Martin by T/KO (punches and elbows, 3:44 round 1) Gabe’s Recommended Play: Martin (+105)
Lightweight bout: Gilbert Burns (-135) vs. Jason Saggo (+125)
Gabe’s Thoughts: I see betting value in Saggo at his current offering price of +125, as I think he should be a -140 betting favorite in this contest. I think he is capable of keeping this fight on the feet and outstriking Burns, potentially stopping him with strikes. Should Burns manage to take the fight to the mat, I think Saggo will hold his own there. I think his advantages in striking and cardio will make the difference here, as I see him picking up an impressive victory over the Brazilian.
Gabe’s Call: Saggo by T/KO (punches, 4:13 round 1)
Gabe’s Recommended Play: Saggo (+125)
