Kamaru Usman vs Leon Edwards Prediction and Odds | UFC 278 August 20
UFC 278 Betting Preview
The rematch that is seven years in the making has finally arrived as Leon “Rocky” Edwards will get his chance to settle the score while Kamaru Usman for the Welterweight Championship at UFC 278 in Salt Lake City on Saturday, August 20. The current champion Usman is a -400 betting favorite at the time of posting.
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Kamaru Usman vs Leon Edwards Preview
| Saturday, August 20 | UFC 278 Betting Notes (Courtesy of Caesars) |
|---|---|
| Moneyline: | Kamaru Usman -400 vs Leon Edwards +320 |
| Rounds: | 4.5 Rounds (Over -160 / Under +140) |
| Fight Time: | Main Card Starts at 10:00pm ET / 7:00am PT |
| Arena: | Vivint Arena in Salt Lake City, Utah |
| TV: | ESPN+ Pay Per View |
When they met in the octagon in 2015, they were both very early and inexperienced in their respective UFC journeys. Both men have grown a tremendous amount since. We’ll be getting a prime vs prime matchup for the championship as I expect to see the best of both men.
This fight will mark the third consecutive rematch for Kamaru Usman as he’s ended his feuds with Colby Covington and Jorge Masvidal over his past two title defenses.
Leon Edwards has dealt with bad luck and unfortunate timing over the past few years that has slowed down his title aspirations as he dealt with bouts being cancelled and moved while others in the division seized the opportunity. Edwards looks to become the first UK champion since Michael Bisping.
Leon “Rocky” Edwards
Leon Edwards is one of the most deserved title challengers in recent memory, as his ten-fight unbeaten streak at welterweight isn’t close to being matched by any other contender. He’s collected some legit names on his resume over the years as he’s defeated the likes of Rafael Dos Anjos and Vicente Luque to go along with his most recent victory over the very popular Nate Diaz.
Edwards offers a well-rounded game as his slick kickboxing skills match well with an outstanding wrestling and grappling acumen. Leon was the better striker when he and Usman first met in 2015. The goal will be to keep this fight standing and work his game.
Kamaru “Nigerian Nightmare” Usman
Kamaru Usman has been a favorite in all but one of his UFC bouts, making him an excellent investment over his career as a perfect 14-0 as a UFC betting favorite. Usman will be defending the welterweight belt for the sixth time on Saturday night.
Usman is the pound-for-pound No. 1-ranked fighter for a good reason, as he’s gone unbeaten since joining the UFC in 2015 and doesn’t look to be slowing down anytime soon as he’s lapping the division.
His opponent Leon Edwards is primed and dangerous as any contender Usman has faced. In their first meeting, Usman used his wrestling to overpower Leon Edwards to the ground and keep him down while also controlling the clinch and landing strikes. The striking of Kamaru Usman is much better while the size and strength along with takedown define seem to be in higher regard for Leon Edwards.
The clinch will be a massive advantage for Usman in this matchup as he can work his wrestling and clinch strikes while shutting down the offence of Edwards. This fight could prove to be the most formidable challenge of Usman’s career thus far.
Kamaru Usman vs Leon Edwards Prediction
In this fight, I expect more work on the feet from both men as I expect the takedown defense of Edwards to be more robust while also thinking Usman will be content to strike with Edwards as he’s developed very nicely since their first fight. Both men are incredibly durable and have been favorable to decisions over their careers. In my opinion, this fight will go the distance. Look to get a good number for this fight to go over 4.5 rounds or go the distance.
Interested in placing a bet on Saturday’s UFC 278 card? Caesars Sports is offering up to a $1,500 risk-free bet for first-time deposits in New Jersey, West Virginia, Colorado, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Virginia, Tennessee, Arizona, New York and Louisiana.
UFC Betting Show | Kamaru Usman vs Leon Edwards Preview
WagerTalk MMA handicapper Kyle Anthony shares his thoughts on Saturday’s UFC 278 card in Salt Lake City, highlighted by Kamaru Usman vs Leon Edwards in the main event from Vivint Arena.
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