UFC Tampa Three Best Moneyline Bets
Davey Grant (13-7) vs Ramon Taveras (10-2)
It’s a real shame that Davey Grant has not been more active throughout his UFC career. He lost in the TUF 18 Finale back in 2013, then took off 2.5 years, and has only competed 10 times since February 2016. 5 of his last 7 fights saw him earn either a performance or fight of the night bonus. Grant brings a dangerous and unorthodox power striking approach to the table which often takes place inside the pocket where he feels quite comfortable.
Taveras earned a controversial split decision victory in his UFC debut back in January, avenging the loss he suffered on the Contender Series. Coming from a boxing background, we often see Taveras use his fast-twitch combination striking style to starch his opponents. When things get into deeper water is usually where we start to see some of the flaws in his game. His lone two defeats have come quickly, so his durability is something to keep an eye on.
It’s astonishing that Grant has never been knocked out in 20 professional fights, especially considering how much he likes to wage war in the pocket. I expect his experience, durability, and cardio edge to pay off for him here as he drags Taveras into deep water to either get a late finish or win a decision. The public seems to agree as Grant was previously a +120 dog, now finds himself as a slight favorite.
The Pick: Davey Grant -115
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Miles Johns (15-2) vs Felipe Lima (13-1)
There were two scheduled bouts against Cody Garbrandt, which would have been the biggest fight of his career, but unfortunately Johns was left waiting for another opponent as Garbrandt pulled out of both. Now hoping to get a fight in before the holidays, Johns takes on a different opponent who is not as well-known but is probably a tougher opponent. It’s been a treat to see Johns reignite his career since moving to Marathon MMA, showcasing solid game planning and execution.
Not often do you see a promotion like OKTAGON let a champion go to the UFC, especially when they are scheduled to defend their title shortly. Luckily, Felipe Lima was given that release and it led to the biggest win of his MMA career as he finished Muhammad Naimov in the final round back in June. Lima has a great all-around game, rides a 13-fight winning streak, and is only 26 years old. This Brazil native trains out of the famed All Stars gym in Sweden and it seems like they’ve brought this kid’s talents to reality.
Although I agree that Lima should be the favorite and probably wins this fight, the odds are too wide to pass up. Johns has a much tougher strength of schedule, and I believe if he can gameplan his way to a win, this would be the fight. Johns can mix up his wrestling and explosive striking style which could muzzle Lima’s offense. At the current odds, this is a must bet.
The Pick: Miles Johns +200
Sean Woodson (12-1-1) vs Fernando Padilla (16-5)
In a deep featherweight division, it doesn’t surprise me to see Woodson’s 5-0-1 run going unnoticed. Standing at a towering 6’2” with a 78” reach, Woodson usually holds a size and length advantage over all his opponents. To his credit, he has yet to miss weight, so if he can continue making the weight in a healthy manner, I’m all for it. Usually sticking his jab and utilizing stellar footwork, Woodson can be a nightmare for his opponents and outpoint them to decision wins.
Padilla holds a 2-1 record with the promotion since being signed in early 2023. He has some stinging power and a slick submission game. He trains under Team Oyama and has a stellar group of training partners. With 14 of his 16 wins coming inside the distance, it’s obvious he provides a solid finishing threat that should keep opponents on edge. However, with all 5 of his wins coming by decision, it’s clear he doesn’t have the best minute-winning style.
I believe Woodson’s defensive striking will be on point here to keep Padilla at bay. Utilizing a ton of movement, and constantly sticking the jab in Padilla’s face will surely cause Padilla issues. Woodson is nearly flawless with his defense, which is why he has only tasted defeat once in his 14-fight career, and I expect that to hold up once again. Seeing the issues that Padilla had dealing with Nelson’s striking, I can only imagine Woodson can replicate that and make it look even easier.
