The UFC heads to one of the most unique venues in combat sports history this weekend as UFC Freedom 250 delivers a card packed with title implications, knockout artists and potential history-makers. With two blockbuster fights at the top of the card, let’s take a look at the best bets and predictions for UFC Freedom 250.
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In the main event, undefeated featherweight champion Ilia Topuria looks to continue his remarkable rise against one of the most dangerous fighters in UFC history, Justin Gaethje. In the co-main event, Alex Pereira attempts to become the first fighter ever to win UFC championships in three different weight classes when he takes on former interim heavyweight champion Ciryl Gane.
Ilia Topuria vs Justin Gaethje
Few fighters have enjoyed a rise quite like Ilia Topuria.
The Georgian-Spanish superstar has quickly established himself as one of the most feared fighters on the UFC roster, producing knockout victories over Alexander Volkanovski, Max Holloway and Charles Oliveira. Those three victories alone place him among the elite pound-for-pound fighters in the sport.
Now Topuria faces another UFC legend.
Justin Gaethje remains one of the most exciting fighters in mixed martial arts history. The American is a former interim lightweight champion and has built his reputation on violence, pressure and devastating knockout power. Win or lose, Gaethje rarely participates in boring fights.
The key question is whether Gaethje can withstand Topuria’s precision striking.
While Gaethje remains dangerous for every second of every round, Topuria appears to be entering the prime of his career. His striking is cleaner, his defence is improving and his confidence has never been higher.
Prediction: Ilia Topuria to win at 1.16.
Best Bet: Ilia Topuria to win by KO, TKO or DQ at 1.41.
Alex Pereira vs Ciryl Gane
History is on the line for Alex Pereira. The Brazilian has already won UFC championships at middleweight and light heavyweight. Victory over Ciryl Gane would make him the first fighter in UFC history to capture titles across three different divisions.
Standing in his way is arguably the most skilled heavyweight striker in the world.
Ciryl Gane combines elite movement, technical striking and athleticism rarely seen in the heavyweight division. Unlike many heavyweights who rely solely on power, Gane is capable of winning rounds through volume, footwork and precision.
Pereira’s power is the great equaliser.
The Brazilian has proven throughout his career that he only needs one opening to change a fight. His left hook remains one of the most dangerous weapons in combat sports, and many believe that power will translate successfully against heavyweight opposition.
The biggest concern for Pereira is size.
This is his first true heavyweight test against a natural heavyweight who has spent years competing against the division’s elite.
Prediction: Ciryl Gane to win at 1.93.
Best Bet: Over 2.5 total rounds at 1.54.
