Find out all about the highly anticipated UFC 311 predictions, betting odds, and picks for each matchup on the main card.
October 22, 2022. Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Islam Makhachev (blue gloves) celebrates with his title belt after defeating Charles Oliveira (red gloves) at UFC 280 at the Etihad Arena. Required Credit: Craig Kidwell-USA TODAY Sports
There’s always drama in the world of UFC, and UFC 311 has already proven that point perfectly. Just when fight fans thought the main event was all set, the MMA gods threw a classic curveball. Islam Makhachev was ready to defend his lightweight title against Arman Tsarukyan, but fate had other plans.
With Tsarukyan withdrawing at the last minute, Renato Moicano stepped forward to face the champion with just 24 hours notice. It’s this kind of chaos that makes MMA so thrilling, changing all expectations and predictions in an instant.
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UFC 311 main card betting odds
Betting odds tell quite a story. Islam Makhachev enters as a -900 heavy favorite compared to Moicano’s +600 underdog status. Given the circumstances, these numbers make perfect sense. Makhachev was largely untouchable during his reign as champion, showing a blend of wrestling prowess and improved striking. While Moicano is on an impressive four-fight winning streak, he faces the toughest challenge of his career with virtually no time to prepare.
In the co-main event, fans will find another exciting title fight as Merab Dvalishvili defends his bantamweight belt against Umar Nurmagomedov. Despite Dvalishvili (+250)’s recent dominance, the odds are -320 in favor of Nurmagomedov. This fight has become personal, and Dvalishvili is clearly frustrated that Nurmagomedov didn’t earn an unearned run for the title.
The rest of the main card also stacks up, with Jiri Prochaska (-140) taking on Jamahal Hill (+110) in what promises to be an impressive fan’s dream. Newly promoted Jailton Almeida (-480) vs. Sergei Spivac (+360) will also be an interesting battle for fans. Kevin Holland (-105) takes on Reiner de Ridder (-115) in an interesting middleweight battle.
UFC 311 main card predictions and picks
The main event of UFC 311 favors Makhachev to retain the title via submission in round 1. It’s hard to argue with that logic, given Monaco’s rush into this game. Moreover, it is difficult to counter Makhachev’s superiority. The co-main event is more interesting as both of these fighters have similar grappling-focused styles. The unanimous decision was to appoint Umar Nurmagomedov.
The fight between Jiri Prochaska and Jamahal Hill was a coin toss. Most people support Prochaska’s chaotic energy, but I have to pick Jamahal Hill, who won by TKO in round 2. His boxing is more refined, his defense is better, and he is technically better.
Regarding the Jailton Almeida vs. Sergei Spivacs fight, we support Almeida submitting Spivac in the second round. His elite wrestling pedigree pretty much guarantees the match will take place on the field, and from there it’s a piece of cake.
As for the final match on the main card, he will have to fight Reinier de Ridder, who has a good ground game, again via submission in round three. But Kevin Holland is no joke. Although he has the power to knock out anyone, De Ridder’s ground game is too good for the “Trail Blazer.”
(Image credit: Craig Kidwell – Imagn Images)
