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As UFC St. Louis approaches, AJ, of “MMA Experts” shares his full card predictions and betting insights for the event. Let’s dive into each matchup with his thoughts and betting odds where mentioned.
JJ Aldrich vs. Veronica Hardy
AJ anticipates a closely contested bout driven by activity, where Veronica Hardy’s dynamic striking might edge out against JJ Aldrich’s clinch control. Veronica Hardy is his pick, favoring her agility and ability to escape clinches, making her the more active fighter likely to impress the judges.
Jared Gooden vs. Kevin Jousset
In a striking-heavy matchup, Kevin Jousset is expected to shine. Jared Gooden, known for his low-guard and vulnerability to strikes, may struggle against Jousset’s precision. AJ cautiously leans towards Jousset, highlighting the risk due to Gooden’s powerful punches but still picks Jousset to potentially dominate.
Jake Hadley vs. Charles Johnson
Charles Johnson is AJ’s choice, predicting a striking duel where Johnson’s experience could prevail. Despite Hadley’s grappling prowess, Johnson’s takedown defense and aggressive striking are likely to carry him through, especially in later rounds.
Trey Waters vs. Billy Goff
In what AJ describes as an intriguing fight, Billy Goff is expected to turn the bout into a gritty and close-range fight, which could overwhelm Waters. Goff’s aggressive style and resilience might just be the key to breaking down Waters’ more measured approach.
Tabatha Ricci vs. Tecia Torres
With both fighters having similar styles, AJ predicts that Tabatha Ricci will utilize her wrestling edge to control the fight, despite Torres’ experience and striking ability. Ricci’s evolving game might just be enough to secure a win in what’s expected to be a very competitive fight.
Terrance McKinney vs. Esteban Ribovics
AJ opts for Terrance McKinney, noting his explosive style and capability to overwhelm Ribovics early on. Despite Ribovics’ resilience, McKinney’s ferocity in the first round could be decisive.
Chase Hooper vs. Viacheslav Borshchev
In a classic striker vs. grappler matchup,AJ believes Chase Hooper will manage to bring the fight to the ground and utilize his superior grappling to secure a win, despite Borshchev’s striking prowess.
Waldo Cortes-Acosta vs. Robelis Despaigne
Waldo Cortes-Acosta is picked by AJ, noting his toughness and ability to handle strikes, which might see him through a fight against a less dynamic Despaigne.
Alex Caceres vs. Sean Woodson
Predicting a mostly striking battle, AJ leans towards Sean Woodson for his superior boxing and reach advantage. Woodson’s ability to control the range and pace could lead him to outstrike Caceres throughout the bout.
Diego Ferreira vs. Mateusz Rębecki
AJ feels strongly about Mateusz Rębecki, impressed by his aggressive style and robust takedown abilities, which could dominate Ferreira, especially considering Ferreira’s recent performances.
Alonzo Menifield vs. Carlos Ulberg
This fight is seen as closely contested, but Jacob selects Carlos Ulberg, citing his better striking and tactical approach. However, he acknowledges Menifield’s power and potential to cause an upset.
Joaquin Buckley vs. Nursulton Ruziboev
Despite the risks, Joaquin Buckley is AJ,s pick. He believes Buckley’s power and resilience at home could lead him to victory, even against the skilled Ruziboev.
Derrick Lewis vs. Rodrigo Nascimento
In the main event, Derrick Lewis is favored to win by knockout. AJ expects Lewis’s power to overcome Nascimento’s lack of comparable firepower and potentially clunky striking style.
Predicted Winners:
- Veronica Hardy
- Kevin Jousset
- Charles Johnson
- Billy Goff
- Tabatha Ricci
- Terrance McKinney
- Chase Hooper
- Waldo Cortes-Acosta
- Sean Woodson
- Mateusz Rębecki
- Carlos Ulberg
- Joaquin Buckley
- Derrick Lewis
AJ’s insights provide a detailed preview of the matchups, focusing on stylistic clashes and potential outcomes, enriched with betting angles for those looking to wager on the fights.
