UFC Odds Preview: Fight for the Troops 2, Predictions and Betting Picks

If you like your UFC fights wild 'n bloody, this Saturday’s Fight for the Troops 2 is probably the card for you. The event is dedicated to the U.S. troops; the last time the UFC fought for the troops, it was a night of pure carnage, with some devastating knockouts and submissions. Let’s try a few UFC betting picks.

Evan Dunham (11-1) vs Melvin Guillard (26-8-2, 1 NC)

Betting odds: Dunham -230, Guillard +190

It’s amazing how close Evan Dunham could be—or should be—to a major fight at 155 pounds. Most sports betting sharps believe he won his last fight against Sean Sherk. That would’ve extended his record to 12-0. Instead, he was saddled with a loss. He drew Kenny Florian as his next opponent anyway, but Florian pulled out with an injury.

The next thing he knew, Dunham was slated to fight Melvin Guillard instead. It’s almost a step down in competition from Sherk, isn’t it? Well, not so fast. Guillard has major knockout power for a lightweight and has quietly taken six of his last seven fights. So Dunham won’t win this in a cakewalk.

Not that he won’t win, though. Guillard is a one-dimensional fighter, who likes to stand and trade but is lost on the ground. Dunham’s standup is underrated and his ground game is outstanding. Look for him to survive on his feet before getting Guillard to the canvas and tapping him out.

Today’s free pick: Dunham -230

Matt Mitrione (3-0) vs Tim Hague (12-4)

Betting odds: Mitrione -250, Hague +210

Matt “Meathead” Mitrione has come a long way since being a heel on the Ultimate Fighter. Maybe we didn’t take his former NFL career seriously enough; it should’ve reminded us that the guy is a world-class athlete. Mitrione has flashed surprising agility to match his major knockout power over his first three pro fights—all victories. He seems to get better every time out, and Hague is more than likely just a pin for him to bowl over in a showcase fight.

Today’s free pick: Mitrione -250

Pat Barry (5-2) vs Joey Beltran (12-4)

Betting odds: Barry -220, Beltran +180

It’s put up or shut up time for the brash kickboxer Pat Barry. His last fight was a bizarre spectacle; he faced his idol, Mirko Cro Cop, in an awkward matchup filled with hugs and high fives. Barry lost via submission and took a lot of criticism for supposedly going easy on Cro Cop. To keep his job in the UFC , he probably has to win on Saturday. That shouldn’t be too difficult against a brawler like Joey Beltran. Look for Barry to win via superior technical striking ability.

Today’s free pick: Barry -220