UFC 98 Main Event – “Sugar” is the Sweet Pick

UFC 98 Preview: “Sugar” is the sweet pick

Sports betting and UFC betting fans have plenty to look forward to this weekend, as UFC 98 will hit the airwaves live on pay-per-view, and will hit the BetOnline sportsbook for those who wager on MMA to enjoy.

Unfortunately, the event isn’t getting the hype that it deserves. Seldom have we seen a champion in any sport given as little respect as Rashad Evans has been accorded in MMA betting circles. For a champion to be an underdog against a relative unknown is unheard of, but such is the fate for the super talented Evans as he embarks upon what could be a very lengthy title reign. And, such is the fate for Evans when he takes on Lyoto Machida this weekend.

Evans has shown unbelievable knockout power in shocking victories over UFC legends Chuck Liddell and Forrest Griffin, defying UFC lines on both occasions. Not to mention that he is also a collegiate wrestler, and thus very capable on the mat as well. The thing is—his fights generally don’t last long enough to go to the ground! Evans’ takedown defense is excellent. Part of that defense is simply landing an uppercut before his opponent even dives in!

Many UFC betting experts like Machida in this fight, because in many ways, he is the mixed martial arts equivalent of Floyd Mayweather Jr. There is simply no way to prepare for his unique brand of karate, which he has used to destroy all of his opponents thus far. The problem for Evans is that there really isn’t anyone on planet earth with whom he can spar leading up to the fight who can replicate the skill set of Machida. All he can do is find opponents of similar size and stature.

But will any of this matter? UFC odds thus far have counted Evans out in any bout, and his raw athletic ability has shone through and allowed him to capture the upset victory on UFC lines each time. Machida could prove to be too difficult for Evans’ athleticism to overcome, but in terms of online sports betting, there is never any reason not to bet on a champion who is deemed an underdog by MMA lines on the BetOnline sportsbook. If the bookie will offer up favorable odds on a proven commodity, then you must take your chances and roll the dice on “Sugar” Rashad Evans.

The Pick: Evans