Get ready for an epic clash between Thiago Santos and Yoel Romero at the PFL vs. Bellator event in Saudi Arabia. Read our prediction and gain valuable insights before betting on MMA this weekend.
| Location | Kingdom Arena, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia |
| Date & Time | February 24, 2024, 3 PM ET card start |
| How to Watch | ESPN+ PPV / DAZN PPV |
Thiago Santos and Yoel Romero, two legendary MMA fighters, are set to face off in an epic showdown at the PFL vs. Bellator event in Saudi Arabia. This highly anticipated fight is a must-watch for MMA fans as these two giants of the sport go head-to-head for the first time. With their careers winding down, this battle promises to be a thrilling display of skill and determination. Don’t miss out on this historic event!
The upcoming PFL vs. Bellator event in Saudi Arabia is set to feature an epic showdown between two legendary fighters, Thiago Santos and Yoel Romero. This highly anticipated fight is a must-watch for MMA fans as these two giants of the sport go head-to-head for the first time. With their careers winding down, this battle promises to be a thrilling display of skill and determination.
Santos vs. Romero Picks
Our pick for this fight is Romero, with odds of -110. Read on to find out more about our prediction and gain valuable insights into the scores and odds before placing your bets on MMA this weekend.
Thiago Santos vs. Yoel Romero Information
- Location: Kingdom Arena, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Date & Time: February 24, 2024, 3 PM ET card start
- How to Watch: ESPN+ PPV / DAZN PPV
Last Fight Record
Santos is coming off a loss to Rob Wilkinson in April 2023, followed by a suspension from PFL for testing positive for PED’s. On the other hand, Romero’s last fight was a Bellator light heavyweight title loss to Vadim Nemkov at Bellator 297 in June.
Thiago Santos Betting Analysis
Thiago Santos is a Brazilian mixed martial artist with a remarkable professional MMA record of 22-11. Known for his explosive striking ability, Santos has secured 15 wins by TKO/KO and one by submission. He holds several notable achievements in the UFC, including earning 7 post-fight bonuses, tying for the most UFC bouts in a calendar year (5), and sharing the record for most KO wins in UFC middleweight history alongside Anderson Silva.
Standing at 6’2" with a reach of 76", Santos fights out of a switch stance. In the UFC, he has averaged 3.72 significant strikes landed and 2.57 absorbed per minute. His takedown defense stands at 65%.
Yoel Romero Betting Analysis
Yoel Romero, a Cuban mixed martial artist, boasts a professional MMA record of 15-7. Prior to his MMA career, Romero represented Cuba in freestyle wrestling, winning numerous gold medals, including one at the World Championships and a silver medal at the 2000 Olympic Games.
Romero, standing at 6’0" as a southpaw fighter, possesses a reach of 73". Throughout his 14-fight UFC career, he has averaged 3.44 significant strikes landed and 3.05 absorbed per minute. He also boasts an average of 1.57 takedowns per 15 minutes and a solid 78% takedown defense.
Thiago Santos vs. Yoel Romero Betting Preview
The Santos vs. Romero matchup is undoubtedly one of the most challenging predictions to make this weekend. Both fighters are nearing the end of their careers, and no MMA fan wants to see either of them lose. However, to make an informed pick, let’s delve into the betting lines and analyze their recent performances.
Currently, Santos is the slight -120 betting favorite, while Romero is listed at -110. These odds may even out as more public bets come in closer to fight day. The over/under is set at 2.5 rounds according to BetUS.
Technically and stylistically, breaking down this matchup is difficult due to the changes in both fighters over the years. Romero, at 46 years old, and Santos, at 40 with knee issues, have seen a decline in their explosiveness.
Santos, with his reach advantage, would benefit from striking at range and keeping the fight in the center of the cage. Romero, on the other hand, still possesses bursts of explosiveness but must choose his moments wisely.
Both fighters have had recent struggles, with Romero going 2-5 in his last 7 fights and Santos going 1-6. This fight holds no championship implications but serves as a celebration of their careers and a treat for the fans.
Thiago Santos vs. Yoel Romero Best Bets and Prediction
Given the even matchup and the desire to see both fighters perform well, this prediction is a tough one. However, if we had to make a choice, we would pick Romero as the slight underdog. If he comes in shape and takes calculated risks, his output alone could secure him the win.
Santos has shown a passive approach since his title fight against Jon Jones and his subsequent knee surgeries. Romero can capitalize on his leverage advantage, landing significant body shots against the cage and controlling the clinch.
Our pick: Romero -110.
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