The previous week featured a UFC Apex card headlined by Song Yadong and Chris Gutierrez. We hit the nail on the head with the Steve Garcia call for FanDuel, and both the Kevin Jousset and Tim Elliott chalk smashed.

This week the UFC is staying in Las Vegas but headed to the T-Mobile Arena to finish up the 2023 UFC calendar year with this PPV card. UFC 296 features two title fights with Alexandre Pantoja facing off against Brandon Royval for the flyweight championship in the co-main, and then Leon Edwards vs Colby Covington for the welterweight championship as the main event. Let’s take a look at a few fights to consider targeting for DFS sake over on FanDuel for this card.

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FIGHT #1 TO TARGET (-550 FDNGTD)

ALEXANDRE PANTOJA ($21) vs. BRANDON ROYVAL ($17)

 What looks to be another exciting matchup was set up by their first encounter. Although Brandon Royval is the underdog in the eagerly awaited rematch for the flyweight title, he stands a chance of dethroning the current champion in Pantoja. Royval, who is renowned for his counter striking, might have the advantage in situations where Pantoja usually performs well. Royval has a chance to take advantage of Pantoja's frequently forceful and careless striking, especially given how their previous fight ended. For DFS players looking for high-volume, action-packed matchups, Royval's versatility and stamina may prove crucial over the course of five rounds, making this fight not just a spectacle but also a wise strategic selection.

Conversely, Pantoja displays a combination of technical skill and unwavering pressure. His uncomplicated, strong striking matches his outstanding grappling abilities, which are highlighted by his ground-and-pound and excellent mat control. Pantoja can dominate top-tier opponents. His recent victory over Brandon Moreno, where his endurance showed, is evidence of this. Pantoja is the rightful favorite in this matchup because of his versatile skill set and ability to take advantage of Royval's weaker takedown defense. Royval is a dangerous opponent because of his dynamic offense and relentless pace.

With his explosive fighting style, Brandon Royval is a constant threat in the octagon. He can keep up a relentless pace throughout a five-round fight thanks to his varied striking arsenal and strong cardio. Royval is a dangerous fighter in any match because of his skill at pursuing submissions and his all-in mentality, which have led to finishes in all but one of his UFC bouts. On the other hand, Pantoja might benefit from his propensity for taking chances and a weakness in the opposition’s takedown defense. In terms of FanDuel DFS this is a great fight to target from both sides.

FIGHT #2 TO TARGET (-325 FDNGTD)

IRENE ALDANA ($16) vs. KAROL ROSA ($13)

Irene Aldana enters this fight with a significant striking advantage and the wrestling savvy to keep the bout standing, thus potentially negating Karol Rosa's optimal strategy. On the other hand, it's unclear how well Aldana can score should the she win in a decision. Rosa's chances of winning seem slim, but she might still be able to find a submission and put up a high score that way.

Praised for her accurate boxing and strong power, Aldana has a remarkable 75% takedown defense, which is essential to keeping the fight in her preferred striking range. The only opponents she has lost recently are veterans Holly Holm and Amanda Nunes. Aldana is a serious competitor due to her size and strength, but her recent defeat to Nunes raises some questions about how well-rounded she really is. Rosa, on the other hand, is a high-volume striker who consistently finds takedowns while averaging almost 6 significant strikes per minute. She may not have knockout power, but she is a tough opponent because of her endurance and constant pressure, as shown by her close victory over Yana Santos, which was probably decided by a timely takedown.

Aldana and Rosa's pairing presents a contrast in styles. Rosa poses a genuine threat due to her active striking style and capacity for takedowns, even though Aldana is the better striker overall. This is an interesting matchup because of Rosa's ability to score tactically and maintain pressure, as well as the uncertainty surrounding Aldana's mental state following a loss. Careful thought should be considered when selecting which fighter to roster for this matchup.

FIGHT #3 TO TARGET (-220 FDNGTD)

SHAVKAT RAKHMONOV ($23) vs. STEPHEN THOMPSON ($8)

Shavkat Rakhmonov's high price tag this week isn't surprising but it does cause for some more careful consideration, especially in light of Stephen Thompson's capabilities and experience. The promising prospect Rakhmonov is going up against a tough veteran in Thompson, whose unusual striking style has historically presented difficulties for a lot of fighters. Although Rakhmonov has an outstanding record, Thompson's tenacity and skill should not be disregarded. Rakhmonov may be a touch overpriced at $23. Though the odds are stacked against Wonderboy, this matchup presents an interesting dynamic in which Thompson's striking finesse could upset the Shavkat's rhythm throughout the fight.

Thompson's pairing with the young and aggressive Rakhmonov feels deliberate. Thompson's age of 40 plays a role, especially in light of Rakhmonov's ability to take opponents down to the mat. Wonderboy Thompson is a fan favorite and has excellent striking ability, however getting past Rakhmonov's grappling might be too much to ask. Although unlikely, Thompson still has a chance to succeed in this endeavor. With his unbeaten record and adaptable skill set, Rakhmonov as the pick absolutely makes sense. But given the unpredictable nature of mixed martial arts and Thompson's track record against elite opponents, there is a small chance for an upset.

Stephen Thompson provides a counterbalance to Rakhmonov's diverse skill set with his unique karate-based style. Thompson has defeated well-known fighters thanks to his movement and unorthodox striking, demonstrating his capacity to take opponents by surprise and catch them from unexpected angles. But his recent struggles against grapplers (especially against a wrestler of Rakhmonov's caliber) are concerning. This fight tests Rakhmonov's versatility and striking defense against an experienced, unconventional striker, as well as Thompson's ability to deal with an upcoming star.

GOOD LUCK THIS WEEKEND

Good look to all heading into this event. If you are watching it at home, follow along with @WeWantPicks on YouTube for live bets on the fight companion. Also, tweet your winning lineups at us and we will do our best to recognize your greatness. 

Enjoy the event, and make sure to keep it locked on We Want Picks for tons of great MMA content.