Make sure to watch the full video or read the short article.
UFC Denver: Namajunas vs. Cortez Predictions & Full Card Breakdown
UFC Denver is shaping up to be an exciting card with 11 thrilling fights. Jacob, aka the Freckled Salamander, from We Want Picks, is here to break down each fight with his predictions, thoughts, and betting tips. Let’s dive into the matchups and see who Jacob is backing this weekend.
Early Prelims
Josh Fremd vs. Andre Petroski (00:01:20)
Prediction: Josh Fremd
Jacob’s Thoughts: Jacob placed a personal bet of $150 on Josh Fremd, betting against Petroski’s lack of cardio and tendency to tire quickly. He believes Fremd can survive the early onslaught and take control as Petroski fades.
Prelims
Montel Jackson vs. Da’Mon Blackshear (00:02:45)
Prediction: Da’Mon Blackshear
Jacob’s Thoughts: Despite Jackson’s wrestling prowess, Jacob is backing Blackshear due to his relentless style and tough competition history. He expects Blackshear to edge out a close decision, especially at elevation.
Luana Santos vs. Mariya Agapova (00:04:08)
Prediction: Luana Santos
Jacob’s Thoughts: Jacob is confident in Santos, having bet on her as a premium play. He believes Santos’ grappling and clinch work will be too much for Agapova, especially given Agapova’s poor takedown defense.
Fatima Kline vs. Jasmine Jasudavicius (00:05:36)
Prediction: Jasmine Jasudavicius
Jacob’s Thoughts: Despite Kline’s initial surge in betting odds, Jacob is backing Jasudavicius due to her training, size advantage, and full fight camp preparation. He believes Jasudavicius’ toughness will shine through in the later rounds.
Joshua Van vs. Charles Johnson (00:07:40)
Prediction: Charles Johnson
Jacob’s Thoughts: Jacob respects Van’s potential but thinks Johnson’s veteran savvy and durability will be the difference. He expects a close, possibly split decision, with Johnson edging out the win.
Cody Brundage vs. Abdul Razak Alhassan (00:09:33)
Prediction: Cody Brundage
Jacob’s Thoughts: Jacob is confident in Brundage’s wrestling and experience at elevation. He believes Brundage will utilize his grappling to wear down Alhassan and secure a victory.
Christian Rodriguez vs. Julian Erosa (00:10:52)
Prediction: Christian Rodriguez
Jacob’s Thoughts: Jacob sees Rodriguez as a safe pick due to his methodical style and wrestling ability. He expects Rodriguez to control the fight and potentially find a submission against Erosa.
Gabriel Bonfim vs. Ange Loosa (00:12:05)
Prediction: Gabriel Bonfim
Jacob’s Thoughts: Despite Loosa’s durability, Jacob is picking Bonfim for his grappling skills and ability to capitalize on Loosa’s mistakes. However, he advises caution due to Bonfim’s high odds.
Main Card
Drew Dober vs. Jean Silva (00:13:27)
Prediction: Jean Silva
Jacob’s Thoughts: Jacob is not impressed with Dober’s durability and believes Silva’s striking power will be too much. He expects Silva to land a knockout, capitalizing on Dober’s tendency to eat shots.
Santiago Ponzinibbio vs. Muslim Salikhov (00:14:48)
Prediction: Santiago Ponzinibbio
Jacob’s Thoughts: In a matchup of veterans, Jacob is slightly leaning towards Ponzinibbio due to his speed and striking. However, he notes this fight is a toss-up and advises against betting on it.
Rose Namajunas vs. Tracy Cortez (00:15:36)
Prediction: Tracy Cortez
Jacob’s Thoughts: Jacob is betting on Cortez due to Namajunas’ recent decline and Cortez’s relentless pressure. He believes Cortez will use her wrestling to control Namajunas and win the fight, despite the five-round distance.
Jacob’s Picks Recap:
- Josh Fremd
- Da’Mon Blackshear
- Luana Santos
- Jasmine Jasudavicius
- Charles Johnson
- Cody Brundage
- Christian Rodriguez
- Gabriel Bonfim
- Jean Silva
- Santiago Ponzinibbio
- Tracy Cortez
For more detailed analysis and betting tips, check out Jacob’s full breakdown on We Want Picks. Enjoy the fights and happy betting!